How do Barrels Impact Wine Tasting?

The Inside Scoop on Oak, Acacia, and All Their Flavors

Barrels are like the secret spice rack of the wine world. Sure, the grapes do the heavy lifting when it comes to flavor, but the barrel is where the magic happens—where raw potential gets turned into something truly special. When wine is aged in barrels, particularly oak barrels (and a few other interesting ones we’ll get to), it picks up a whole host of flavors, aromas, and textures that elevate the drinking experience. So, let’s dive into the world of barrels and see how they turn good wine into something worth writing home about.

Five Impacts:

1. The Oak Influence

2. Acacia Barrels

3. Aging and Oxygen

4. Mouth Feel

5. New vs. Old Barrels

1. The Oak Influence: Vanilla, Spice, and Everything Nice

First things first—let’s talk about oak. Most wine barrels are made from oak, and that’s not just because it looks pretty in a cellar. Oak imparts a variety of flavors to the wine, depending on the type of oak, the age of the barrel, and how long the wine spends in it.

- American Oak: This type of oak tends to be bold and brash, kind of like the cowboy of the barrel world. It imparts strong flavors of vanilla, coconut, and even a hint of dill. American oak barrels are often used for big, robust wines that can stand up to these strong flavors, like Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon. We use a hybrid barrel (half American/half French) for the 2022 Tempranillo.

- French Oak: French oak is more like the suave, sophisticated cousin. It adds subtle, elegant flavors like clove, cinnamon, and cedar. Wines aged in French oak often have a smoother, more refined palate, making it the go-to choice for wines like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and our Syrah and Malbecs.

- Toasting Levels: The inside of the oak barrel is toasted (think of it like toasting a marshmallow), and the level of toasting can dramatically affect the flavors imparted to the wine. A light toast might add more subtle, sweet vanilla notes, while a heavy toast can bring out smoky, roasted coffee or chocolate flavors.

2. Acacia Barrels: The Floral Understudy

Now, let’s bring Acacia into the spotlight. While oak tends to steal the show, acacia barrels are like that unexpected supporting character who ends up being your favorite. Acacia wood doesn’t pack the same flavor punch as oak, but what it does add is a subtle, floral complexity that’s particularly lovely in white wines.

- Floral Notes: Acacia barrels are known for enhancing the natural floral aromas of the wine, adding notes of jasmine, honeysuckle, and even a touch of orange blossom. If you’ve ever had a white wine with a delicate bouquet that made you think of walking through a flower garden, there’s a good chance acacia was involved. The Resistance Collab and Sauvignon Blanc both use Acacia.

- Preserving Freshness: Unlike oak, acacia doesn’t impart those heavy vanilla or spice flavors. Instead, it helps preserve the fresh, vibrant character of the wine, making it a popular choice for aromatic whites like Sauvignon Blanc or Viognier. It’s like the wine gets to keep all its bright, zesty personality while picking up just a hint of something extra.

3. Aging and Oxygen: The Slow Dance of Time

When wine is aged in barrels, it’s not just sitting there—it’s interacting with the wood and the air. Oak barrels are slightly porous, which allows a small amount of oxygen to seep into the wine over time. This slow oxygenation process softens the tannins in the wine, making it smoother and more approachable.

- Softening Tannins: Tannins are what give wine its structure, but they can be a bit harsh when the wine is young. Aging in barrels helps mellow out these tannins, making the wine rounder and more balanced. Think of it as the difference between a fresh-out-of-college grad and someone with a few years of life experience—both have potential, but the latter is usually more polished.

- Flavor Development: As the wine ages in the barrel, it starts to pick up those delicious oak-derived flavors like vanilla, spice, and toast. But that’s not all. The wine also develops more complex flavors as it interacts with oxygen and undergoes micro-oxidation. This is where you start to get those secondary and tertiary flavors like dried fruit, leather, and tobacco in older wines.

4. The Barrel’s Role in Texture: Smooth Operator

Barrels don’t just add flavor—they also play a big role in the wine’s texture. Wines aged in barrels tend to have a richer, creamier mouthfeel, thanks to the way the wood interacts with the wine.

- Malolactic Fermentation: If you’ve ever heard someone describe a wine as “buttery,” they’re talking about the results of malolactic fermentation—a process that often takes place in the barrel. This fermentation converts the sharper malic acid in the wine into softer lactic acid, giving the wine a creamy texture and those signature buttery flavors, especially in Chardonnay.

- Integration: Over time, the flavors from the oak and the wine itself start to meld together. This integration is what gives barrel-aged wines their complex, layered profiles, where no one flavor overpowers the others, but rather, they all work in harmony.

5. New vs. Old Barrels: Fresh vs. Subtle

The age of the barrel also has a big impact on the wine’s flavor.

- New Barrels: A new barrel is like a spice bomb—full of intense flavors just waiting to be released. Wines aged in new barrels tend to have strong oak characteristics, which is great if you’re looking for a big, bold wine.

- Old Barrels: As barrels age, they lose some of their punch. By the time a barrel has been used a few times, it’s imparting much subtler flavors to the wine. This allows the fruit and terroir characteristics of the wine to shine through more clearly, making older barrels ideal for more delicate wines.

Conclusion: Barrels, the Unsung Heroes of Wine

So there you have it—the lowdown on how barrels impact wine tasting. Whether it’s adding flavors like vanilla and spice, softening tannins, enriching texture, or simply letting the wine develop over time, barrels are the unsung heroes behind many of the world’s greatest wines. And don’t forget about acacia, the floral understudy that brings something extra special to the table. The next time you enjoy a glass of beautifully aged wine, take a moment to thank the humble oak (and acacia) barrel—it’s been hard at work making sure that every sip is as smooth, complex, and delicious as possible. Cheers to that!

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Just the Tip: A Guide to Tipping at Wineries

By kirk • December 14, 2024

Just the Tip: A Guide to Tipping at Wineries Near and Far So, you’re at a winery, basking in the glow of finely-aged Syrah and the smug satisfaction of knowing the difference between a Malbec and a Merlot. Life is good. But then the check comes, and you're faced with the question that stumps even the most seasoned wine connoisseurs: How much do I tip? Fear not, wine wanderer, because we’ve got the ultimate (and slightly irreverent) guide to tipping at wineries near Ashland, similar wineries in the Rogue Valley, and beyond. First Things First: Do You Even Need to Tip at a Winery? Short answer? Yes. Long answer? It depends. While tipping isn’t always expected at every winery, it’s a great way to show appreciation for the person pouring your flights, sharing the backstory of every grape, and pretending not to notice when you mispronounce "Viognier" (it’s vee-own-yay, BTW). Think of it as a way to thank your wine whisperer for making your day better—and for making sure your glass is never empty. How Much to Tip: The Goldilocks Rule When it comes to tipping at wineries, here’s the general breakdown: Tasting Room Flights: If you're doing a standard tasting, $5 to $10 per person is a good rule of thumb. If the person pouring is extra friendly, knowledgeable, or funny enough to make you snort wine out of your nose, consider tipping a bit more. Private Tastings or Tours: For a more curated experience, 15-20% of the total cost is appropriate. Yes, this includes those fancy barrel tastings where they let you swirl wine straight from the source. Wine Purchase Without Tasting: If you pop in, grab a bottle, and leave, you’re off the hook for tipping. But hey, if the staff helps you pick the perfect Southern Oregon Syrah, a small tip is a classy move. Events or Pairings: For special events like wine dinners or vineyard tours, tipping 20% of the ticket price is the standard. Remember, these folks are juggling wine glasses, cheese boards, and probably your terrible pun about “grape expectations.” Tipping Near Ashland Wineries If you’re winery-hopping in Ashland, tipping is especially important because the tasting rooms here are small and intimate. Whether you’re at Resistance Wine Co. (where our staff are basically wine superheroes), Weisinger Family Winery, or Irvine & Roberts, tipping shows your appreciation for the personal attention and the stories behind every pour. These aren’t mass-production spots—they’re pouring you their heart and soul (and maybe a little Malbec). What About Wineries Near Ashland? When you venture out to Quady North, Sommar, or Daisy Creek, the same tipping rules apply. You’re still enjoying top-notch wine and personalized service, even if you’ve had to drive a little farther (and let’s be honest, the views make it worth it). Think of tipping as part of the experience—like buying a souvenir, but for your server’s wallet. Controversial Tipping Situations “I Paid a Tasting Fee!”: True, most wineries charge a tasting fee, but that doesn’t go straight into your server’s pocket. A tip is your way of saying, “Thanks for answering all my questions about oak barrels without rolling your eyes.” “I Bought a Case of Wine!”: Great! You’re already supporting the winery, but tipping your server ensures they feel appreciated for their hard work. After all, they’re the ones who convinced you to spring for that extra bottle of 2019 Syrah. “I Only Had a Small Pour!”: Even if you’re just sampling a few wines, the staff is still putting in the effort. A small tip goes a long way in showing gratitude. But What If You’re Cheap? Let’s face it, not everyone is rolling in cash. If you’re on a budget, there are still ways to show appreciation: Write a glowing review on Google or Yelp. Follow the winery on social media and share your experience. Buy a bottle of wine to take home (or two, if you’re feeling fancy). Remember, tipping isn’t just about money—it’s about saying, “Thanks for making my wine dreams come true.” The Resistance Wine Co. Tipping Manifesto At Resistance Wine Co., we’re not here to guilt you into tipping (but seriously, be nice to our team). Whether you’re sipping our 2018 Syrah or getting the lowdown on our 2022 Rosé, a little gratitude goes a long way. And hey, if you’re unsure how much to tip, just go with your gut—or ask us for advice. We’ve got opinions (and wine). Final Tip: Don’t Overthink It Wine tasting is supposed to be fun, not stressful. Whether you’re visiting a winery near Ashland, somewhere in the Rogue Valley, or way out in the Applegate Valley, tipping is just one small way to say thanks for a job well done. So relax, sip, and enjoy the wine. After all, the best tip you can give is showing up, appreciating the wine, and maybe grabbing an extra bottle to share with your friends. Cheers to generosity, good wine, and never mispronouncing “Viognier” again!

Wineries Near Ashland (we have no idea what you mean by "near")

By kirk • December 14, 2024

Wineries “Near” Ashland, Oregon: Because Near Is a State of Mind When it comes to wine tasting in Southern Oregon, the word "near" is a bit... flexible. In Ashland, we like to think of “near” as “anything within a bottle’s worth of driving distance.” Some wineries are actually near, like a quick jaunt down the road. Others are “Southern Oregon near,” which translates to “a scenic drive through vineyards, mountains, and probably a rogue deer sighting.” Either way, the Rogue and Applegate Valleys are packed with amazing wineries, so buckle up, sip up, and let’s navigate this wine-soaked geography together. The Truly Near: Ashland’s Best Wineries First, let’s talk about the wineries you could practically crawl to (not recommended, but hey, wine happens). If you’re staying in Ashland, you’re already spoiled for choice with these incredible spots right in town. Resistance Wine Co. We’re not biased or anything (okay, maybe a little), but Resistance Wine Co. is where your wine journey should start. We’re rebellious, irreverent, and proudly Ashland. From our bold Syrah to our swoon-worthy Malbec, we’re here to prove that Southern Oregon wine is anything but ordinary. Our tasting room? Just a short walk from downtown Ashland, so you can sip, snack, and still make it to your next stop—or the Oregon Shakespeare Festival—without breaking a sweat (unless it's August...then you will break a sweat but we have fantastic air conditioning.) Weisinger Family Winery A quick five-minute drive from downtown, Weisinger Family Winery is basically the sophisticated cousin who knows their wine inside and out. Known for their Tempranillo and Pinot Noir, Weisinger is the place to go if you want to sip wine with sweeping views of the Ashland hills. Pro tip: pair your tasting with their cheese board. It’s dangerously good. Irvine & Roberts Vineyards If you like your wine with a side of luxury, head to Irvine & Roberts. Their sleek tasting room is perched just outside of town, offering stunning views of the Rogue Valley. Their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are top-notch, but let’s be honest, you’ll be equally mesmerized by the fire pits and sunsets. This is wine tasting for people who love good wine and Instagram-worthy views. The Sort-of-Near: Wineries That Are a “Short Drive” Away Now, let’s expand our definition of “near” to include some of the Rogue Valley and Applegate Valley’s other gems. These wineries are worth the drive, but let’s be real—you're going to need snacks or a good playlist to get there. Quady North Located in Jacksonville, Quady North is about 30 minutes from Ashland—close enough to feel “near,” but far enough that you’ll start debating whether that second cup of coffee was a good idea. Known for their Viognier and Cabernet Franc, Quady North is where serious wine lovers go to geek out on Southern Oregon’s best varietals. Eliana Wines Eliana Wines is tucked away just outside Medford, making it a solid option for those who don’t mind a 20-minute drive. Their Bordeaux blends and cozy tasting room make it feel like you’ve been transported to a European countryside—except you’re still in Southern Oregon and your GPS is yelling at you to “turn left now.” Daisy Creek Vineyards Daisy Creek is one of those spots that feels close enough to Ashland to count as “near,” but far enough that you’ll feel like you’re on a mini road trip. Their Tempranillo and Grenache are the stars of the show, and their laid-back vibe makes it a great spot to relax after a day of exploring Ashland. Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden Let’s stretch the definition of “near” just a little further. Nestled in the Applegate Valley, Cowhorn is about 45 minutes from Ashland. Their biodynamic wines are worth the drive, and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve just stepped out of a wine-soaked fairytale. Plus, their Syrah is next-level. Sommar Wine Co. Located just outside Talent, Sommar is like the cool, artsy friend of Rogue Valley wineries. Known for their innovative blends and hip tasting room, it’s a great spot to kick back and enjoy the best of Southern Oregon wine without venturing too far from Ashland. When “Near” Gets Creative Here’s the deal: in Southern Oregon, “near” is more about the vibe than the mileage. If you’re planning a wine tour, Ashland is the perfect home base. You can hit the town’s best wineries, like Resistance, Weisinger, and Irvine & Roberts, without even leaving city limits. Feeling adventurous? Head out to Quady North, Cowhorn, or Sommar for a little taste of the Rogue and Applegate Valleys. No matter how you define “near,” one thing’s for sure: Southern Oregon wine is always worth the trip. So grab a map (or your GPS), and start exploring. Just make sure you bring a designated driver—or, you know, pace yourself with a tasting flight at Resistance Wine Co. first. Cheers to redefining “near” one glass at a time!

OSF Pre-Show Activities and Shenanigans

By kirk • December 14, 2024

So, you’ve scored tickets to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Congrats on being cultured and fancy for a day! But here’s the real question: what are you going to do before the lights dim and the actors start monologuing? Fear not, dear theater-goer. We’ve got the ultimate list of OSF pre-show activities that will not only kill time but make you feel like you’ve absolutely crushed the “I know how to enjoy Ashland” game. Spoiler alert: wine is involved. Unfortunately there is no "Drunk Shakespeare" show in town... Stroll the Streets of Ashland: Cute, Charming, and Slightly Bougie Before you dive into Shakespeare’s world of tragic kings and mistaken identities, take a leisurely walk through downtown Ashland, where every corner is like a curated Instagram post. Pop into Amistad for some unique finds—handcrafted jewelry, artsy home goods, or that one-of-a-kind scarf that will make your theater selfies look fabulous. Plus, the people there are so friendly, you’ll feel like you just got cast in a Hallmark movie. Wine Tasting at Resistance Wine: Because You Deserve It Nothing pairs with Shakespearean drama quite like a good glass (or three) of wine. Swing by Resistance Wine Co. for a pre-show tasting that’ll leave you feeling bold and ready to interpret iambic pentameter like a pro. Sip on our 2018 Syrah—as rebellious as Lady Macbeth—or our 2022 Rosé, crisp enough to make even Hamlet chill out. Pair it with one of our curated snacks, and suddenly you’re the star of your own wine-fueled pre-show revolution. Remember, nothing screams “sophisticated theater enthusiast” like walking into the theater with a hint of wine confidence. Click here to pair your wine with each show...cause why not. Explore Lithia Park: Nature, but Make it Dramatic Need a little fresh air before sitting for two hours in a theater? Take a stroll through Lithia Park, where the scenery is as stunning as Shakespeare’s best soliloquies. With its lush greenery, bubbling creek, and occasional squirrel drama, it’s the perfect place to practice your best “To be or not to be” line. Bonus: if you find the Lithia water fountain, dare your friends to try it. (Warning: it tastes like regret, but it’s an Ashland rite of passage.) Cryo Spa at Crystal Cryo Treatments : Chill Before You Thrill Feeling tense before the big show? Head to Crystal Cryo Treatments for a quick chill session. Whether it’s a cryo facial to freshen up your face or a full-body freeze to cure that post-road-trip stiffness, this place is all about making you feel cooler (literally) before curtain time. Plus, you’ll have a great story to tell your theater buddies: “I froze myself in a chamber before watching Macbeth—your move.” Tea at Dobra Tea House: Shakespeare Would Approve Not in the mood for wine? (Who even are you?) That’s fine. Head to Dobra Tea House for an otherworldly tea experience. This is where Ashland’s zen masters go to sip on exotic blends and channel their inner Prospero. Order a pot of something herbal, curl up on one of their floor cushions, and prepare yourself for the dramatic highs and lows of the stage. Warning: the vibe is so relaxing, you might forget you’re going to a show. Pro Tip: Pair Your Pre-Show with Purpose The secret to the perfect OSF pre-show activity is balance. Want a little culture? Stroll downtown. Craving relaxation? Hit the cryo spa or grab some tea. Need a pre-game for Shakespeare’s most chaotic tragedies? You know Resistance Wine has your back. The goal is simple: make the most of Ashland before you sit down for some of the best theater in the country. And if you’re really winning at life, you’ll find a way to do all of these in one glorious, drama-filled day. Resistance Wine Co.: Your Pre-Show MVP Whether you’re here for a tragedy, a comedy, or something that defies genre entirely (looking at you, Lizard Boy fans), Resistance Wine Co. is your pre-show HQ. Swing by for wine, snacks, and just enough rebellion to make Shakespeare proud. After all, if the Bard were alive today, we’re pretty sure he’d be sipping Syrah at our tasting room before heading to the theater. Cheers to pre-show adventures, Ashland style! Hint - if our hours don't look open for a pre-show matinee (Just call or book an appointment!) Now go forth, theater buffs, and make your pre-show time as memorable as the performance itself. Just don’t forget to grab your tickets. And a bottle of Resistance Wine, obviously.

Rogue Valley Holiday Gift Ideas for Wine Lovers

By kirk • December 1, 2024

The Ultimate Christmas Gift List for the Wine Lover in Your Family – Ashland & Rogue Valley Edition Struggling to find the perfect gift for the wine lover in your life? We’ve got you covered, Rogue Valley style. This holiday season, skip the generic presents and opt for wine-centric gifts that’ll make your family and friends feel like true connoisseurs. Here’s the ultimate wine lover’s Christmas list, full of quirky and thoughtful gifts—perfect for those living the Rogue Valley life. Whether you’re in Ashland or just around the corner, these wine-related gifts will make spirits brighter and bottles emptier (in the best way possible). 1. Coravin Wine Preservation System - $$$ Why open a bottle of wine when you only want one glass? The Coravin lets you pour just one glass without pulling the cork. Keep the rest of your Resistance Syrah fresh for weeks or even months—perfect for those who love their wine but don’t always finish a bottle in one sitting. This one's especially useful when you’re sampling wines from all over Ashland’s finest wineries. 2. Resistance Wine Club Membership - $$ Want to keep the good times rolling all year long? The Resistance Wine Club membership gets you 4, 6, or 12 bottles delivered twice a year. They’ll enjoy a discount and the opportunity to hand-pick wines like Malbec, Syrah, or even a special reserve just for members. Support local and enjoy some of the best wines from Resistance Wine Co. in Ashland, right to your doorstep! 3. One of Everything Pack from Resistance Wine - $$ Can’t decide which wine to get? Get them One of Everything—a bottle of every wine Resistance Wine Co. has to offer, from the bold 2018 Syrah to the refreshing 2022 Rosé. A perfect gift for anyone who likes to have options, and especially ideal for those who live near Lithia Park and entertain guests year-round. 4. 4 Wine Glasses (Riedel or Similar) - $$ Sure, the Ashland holiday lights are sparky, but so are nice wine glasses! If you're going to drink wine, you need a glass that lets the wine breathe. Riedel or Zwiesel glasses make the perfect gift for wine lovers who want the best wine-tasting experience. This set of four will ensure everyone’s glass is filled with Syrah, Malbec, or Tempranillo in style during holiday dinners in Ashland’s cozy neighborhoods. 5. Resistance Wine Tote (Linen, Insulated Bag) - $ For the wine lover on the go—whether it’s a picnic at Emigrant Lake or a tailgate for an Oregon Ducks (or Beavers) game, this Resistance Wine Tote will keep wine cool and stylish. Made of durable linen, it’s insulated to keep your favorite Resistance Wines at the perfect temperature wherever the adventure takes you. 6. Best Waiter’s Wine Corkscrew - $ to $$$ No one wants a cork to ruin their wine experience. The best waiter’s corkscrew will have you uncorking your Malbec like a pro. This sleek tool is perfect for opening any bottle of wine with ease, ensuring you never waste a second when it’s time to enjoy your Resistance Syrah. 7. Subscription to Wine Enthusiast Magazine - $$ For the wine lover who always wants to know what’s next in the world of wine, Wine Enthusiast Magazine is a gift that keeps on giving. With insider knowledge, reviews, and the latest trends, your friend or family member will always be the first to know what’s happening in the world wide wine scene. 8. Wine Class with WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) - $$ Turn their passion for wine into expertise with a WSET wine class. This internationally recognized certification will take them from casual wine lover to sommelier-level wine enthusiast. They’ll soon be impressing their friends with their new knowledge of Tempranillo and Pinot Noir, perhaps in the beautiful wineries of Talent. 9. An Amazing Decanter - $$ - $$$ Every wine lover needs an amazing decanter to let their wine breathe. This gift ensures that the 2018 Syrah gets the attention it deserves. Whether they have a cellar in Ashland or just love to entertain, a good decanter makes any bottle feel extra special. 10. Wine Tags for Tracking All of Their Wine - $ For the true collector, wine tags are essential. These labels will help them track their wines by type, vintage, and tasting notes. Whether it’s their Resistance Syrah or a limited-edition Malbec, wine tags keep the collection organized, so they’ll never forget which bottle came from a great vineyard! 11. Wine Sensory Kit - $ Help them deepen their wine appreciation with a wine sensory kit. These kits contain scents and flavor profiles to help them hone their nose and palate, making them an expert at identifying the notes in any bottle of Resistance Wine or any Rogue Valley wine. Perfect for the wine geek who lives for their next wine-tasting adventure. 12. Wine Glass Charms - 0 Just kidding – don’t do these. If you can’t figure out what glass of wine is yours, a wine charm won’t help. You won’t remember which one belongs to you either… 13. Wine Tasting Journal - $ For the wine lover who likes to document their experiences, a wine tasting journal is perfect. They can track the different bottles they've tried, from their favorite Syrah to the 2022 Rosé they love to sip while watching the sunset over Ashland. This gift ensures they never forget that amazing bottle from Weisinger. 14. Personalized Wine Barrel - $$$$ For the serious wine enthusiast, a personalized wine barrel is a statement piece. Whether they use it for storage, decoration, or even aging their own wine, this barrel is an unforgettable gift. Bonus points if you add a bottle of Resistance Syrah from Ashland to complete the package. 15. Customized Wine Glass Set - $$ Get them a set of customized wine glasses—personalized with their name, a funny quote, or their favorite wine on each glass. It’s a thoughtful and practical gift that’s perfect for Malbec lovers or anyone who enjoys their Syrah from Resistance Wine Co.. One of my favorite presents ever is a monogramed Bourbon bottle. Every time I use it, I think of my sister…it’s weird it has her initials instead of mine…just kidding! 16. Portable Wine Aerator - $ For the impatient wine drinker who doesn’t have time to wait for wine to breathe, a portable wine aerator is the solution. This handy tool instantly enhances the flavors of any wine, so your friend can start enjoying their 2019 Syrah right away. A perfect gift for Ashland locals who like to sip now. 17. Vintage Wine Map - ?? For the aspiring wine connoisseur, a vintage wine map is the ultimate gift. It highlights the best wine regions around the world, and for a true Rogue Valley experience, pair it with a bottle of 2022 Rosé from Resistance Wine Co.. It’s a great way to dream of future wine adventures—or just keep track of your Southern Oregon favorites. These wine-centric gifts will keep your favorite wine lover’s spirits high (literally). Skip the boring presents this year and give them something they'll actually use—preferably while sipping on some Resistance Wine. Cheers to a wine-filled holiday season!