Italians know how to drink. Stop by this Russian Hill wine shop and let the smarty-pants staff help you pick out a bottle (or case) to make your holiday a little more, well, Roman.

NV Alice Prosecco Superiore Extra Dry DOCG, $20
Fake your wine expertise by telling your cohorts it’s pronounced “A-lee-chay” as you sip bright, citrusy bubbly straight from a beautiful bottle you’ll be tempted to keep.

2009 Ca Lojera de Tiraboschi Lugana, $19
Finally back on the shelves after selling out in two days, this classic, elegant winter white is the Birkin of wines at a much more reasonable price.

NV Mauro Vergano Americano, $40
Owner Ceri Smith suggests pairing fortified, orange-and-spice infused organic wine with soda water and a blood orange twist for a prefeast aperitivo or with Moscato d’Asti anytime.

2006 Luigi Ferrando Carema, $42
The hearty, complex red made from grapes grown on steep Italian mountainsides is best shared with your equally mysterious love interest.

Primitivizia Mugolio Syrup, $22
Though it isn’t boozy on its own, pine bud extract makes for a surprisingly versatile, delectably seasonal addition to cheeses, ice cream, prosecco, and cocktails. We won’t judge if you sneak a few spoonfuls straight from the jar.

Biondivino Wine Boutique, 1415 Green Street, between Polk Street and Van Ness Avenue (415-673-2320 or biondivino.com).

Photo: Courtesy of Biondivino Wine Boutique