With baked treats and good cheer, the holiday season is perfect for spending quality time with family and friends. Filled with love and laughter, it’s a favorite time of year across the nation. Whether hosting a party or simply relaxing at home amidst holiday-inspired décor, make it a point to absorb all this season has to offer.

Make the most out of the holidays have to offer by following these simple suggestions from the award-winning Gallo of Sonoma Winery:

f Plan the Perfect Party

Hosting a holiday party is one of the best ways to bring together family and friends. Add some decorative touches, music and holiday fare to set the tone for two or 20 guests. With a little creativity and advanced planning, the party will be a great success.

f Keep Tradition Alive

Use this time of year to connect with family. Make an effort to learn about history from older members of the family. A great way to keep traditions alive is to continue to use family recipes. “One of the many traditions I’ve carried on from my family is serving my grandmother’s hearty tomato sauce with our Gallo of Sonoma Frei Ranch Zinfandel,” said Gina Gallo, third-generation winemaker.

f Cook Up Some Holiday Cheer

Invite a few close friends for dinner and share the joy of cooking together, preparing traditional holiday recipes and discovering new ones too! Try pairing robust red meats, like steaks or roasts with a full-bodied red such as Cabernet Sauvignon. Seafood and rich pasta dishes are most succulent when served with a rich and full-flavored Chardonnay, while roasted chicken and pasta dishes marry well with a more fruit-forward red like Merlot. A general rule in food and wine pairing is to match the weight of the food with the weight of the wine.

f ‘Tis the Season for Giving

This year, give your loved ones a gift that they’ll really enjoy. Try filling a basket with an assortment of gourmet cheeses, nuts and dried fruits, accompanied by an award-winning wine from Sonoma. The nutty flavors of almonds, cashews and walnuts pair so well with the subtle oak flavors of the wine.

f Shop Like a Star Sommelier

A helpful hint when shopping for a new bottle of wine is to look for a medal on the label. Throughout the year, dozens of wine competitions are held worldwide. When a wine wins a medal, the winemaker wins the right to display it on their bottle. Try, for example, Gallo of Sonoma’s Sonoma Coast Pinot Gris, winner of “Best in Class” at the L.A. County Fair, one of the oldest wine competitions in America. It’s important to take the time to celebrate with loved ones, embracing all that the season has to offer. This year, make the most out of the holidays.