Why Wine Makes the Holidays Brighter

A cozy Christmas reflection from Olathea Creek Vineyard & Winery

There’s something magical about the holiday season — the glow of Christmas lights, the familiar music, the bustle of gatherings, and the quiet moments in between. But if you ask us, there’s one simple pleasure that has a way of making the season feel even warmer: a good glass of wine shared with the people you love.

At Olathea Creek, Christmas is one of our favorite times of year. As young owners building a modern Midwest winery from the ground up, we’ve learned that the holidays aren’t just about traditions — they’re about togetherness. And wine has a beautiful way of bringing people together.

Slowing Down the Season

The holidays move fast — shopping, planning, wrapping, cleaning, hosting. A glass of wine is an invitation to slow down. To breathe. To sit for a moment by the tree or around the table and remember what this time of year is really about.

Whether it’s a crisp La Crescent after Christmas shopping or a pour of Riverboat Red Reserve by the fireplace, wine turns ordinary minutes into memories.

A Toast to Traditions — Old and New

Every family has their own holiday rituals, and we love hearing how people incorporate wine into theirs:

• A glass while decorating the tree

• A Christmas Eve toast before heading to church

• A bottle shared during cookie baking

• A holiday dinner pairing that becomes a tradition of its own

For us at Olathea Creek, Christmas wine traditions are still forming — and that’s the beauty of being a young winery. We’re building moments we’ll cherish for years to come. And we’re honored to be part of yours, too.

Wine Brings People Together

There’s something about opening a bottle that draws people closer. Conversations get warmer, laughter gets louder, and memories feel richer. Wine encourages connection — the very heart of the holiday season.

Maybe it’s because wine itself is a labor of community. Grapes grown from Iowa soil. Vines tended by family. Bottles filled with care. And glasses poured for friends. Each sip tells the story of people coming together.

Adding a Little Sparkle to Your Holidays

Whether you’re hosting Christmas dinner or curling up in pajamas watching your favorite holiday movie, the right bottle can set the mood. Sweet, dry, bold, bubbly — there’s a wine for every moment:

• La Crescent for Christmas cookies

• Petite Pearl Estate for holiday dinners

• Frontenac Gris Rosé (FGR) for Christmas Eve charcuterie

• Riverboat Red for cozy nights in

• Dessert Wines for a sweet ending to the season

Wine doesn’t have to be fancy. It just has to be shared.

From Our Family to Yours

As the holidays approach, we want to say thank you. Thank you for supporting our dream, for visiting our tasting room, for sharing your stories, and for choosing our wines to be part of your celebrations.

We hope this Christmas is full of warmth, comfort, and connection — and maybe a bottle or two that makes the season a little brighter.

Cheers to love, laughter, and all the magical moments ahead.

Merry Christmas from Olathea Creek Vineyard & Winery.

Cheers,

The Flaherty Family 🍷

Mackenzie (age 1), Greyson (age 5), and Brody (age 3)