During the festive season, many of us have experienced the frantic last-minute wine purchase, hoping the label will suffice. It's a common scenario, but if you're investing time in cooking and gathering with loved ones, the beverage deserves equal consideration.
California produces exceptional wines, and you needn't settle for a rushed supermarket selection. Across the state, numerous wineries craft personal, deliberate wines that are truly worth supporting, particularly during the holidays when your choice carries extra significance.
This Christmas, consider an upgrade from random picks. Here are California producers whose bottles I'll be proudly serving.
Bodkin Wines: 2015 Gewürztraminer “The Bohemian”
Bring this bottle for an intriguing addition to your meal. Founded by self-taught winemaker Chris Christensen, this Black-owned winery is recognized for vibrant, lower-alcohol creations. “The Bohemian” offers a bone-dry, refreshing profile with spicy ginger hints, delicate florals, and a crisp finish that complements rather than clashes with rich holiday dishes. It's an excellent choice for those who typically avoid sweet white wines. Available online for about $25.
SUTRO Wine Co.: 2021 Merlot
If Merlot's reputation has suffered unfairly, this bottle offers redemption. From the woman-founded, family-run SUTRO, this small-lot Merlot hails from Warnecke Ranch in Alexander Valley. Volcanic soils and steep slopes contribute to its distinct character. Expect bright red fruit flavors like cherry and raspberry, a subtle savory element, and a smooth, refined finish. With only 82 cases made, it's a distinctive choice for your celebration.
Flowers Vineyard: 2023 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
This Chardonnay can win over even its skeptics. Perched above the Sonoma Coast, Flowers benefits from cool fog and ocean breezes, yielding fresh, elegant wines. The 2023 vintage is crisp and balanced, featuring bright citrus, subtle stone fruit, and a touch of richness that avoids heaviness. It pairs wonderfully with seafood, roast chicken, or creamy sides. Available online or at select wine shops.
Madson Wines: 2024 Passetoutgrain
A newer producer in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Madson focuses on regenerative farming and native fermentations. Their 2024 Passetoutgrain, a blend of Gamay and Pinot Noir from high-elevation coastal vineyards, is vibrant and highly drinkable. Look for juicy red fruit like wild strawberry and pomegranate, floral notes, a hint of white pepper, and a savory, mineral-driven finish. Available through their wine club.
Rodney Strong: 2019 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
For a classic, crowd-pleasing Cabernet, this Sonoma staple delivers. Their Reserve Cabernet demonstrates serious craftsmanship. The 2019 vintage features deep red and black fruit, firm tannins, and well-integrated oak, resulting in a bold, structured wine that pairs beautifully with a hearty holiday meal. Widely available online and in stores.
Iron Horse Vineyards: Winter’s Cuvée 2020
A favorite sparkling wine for winter, crafted specifically for the season. The 2020 vintage is both elegant and cozy, with fine bubbles, notes of toasted brioche, warm spice, roasted nuts, and bright citrus for balance. Perfect for festive toasts. Available online or at their scenic Sonoma tasting room.
Clif Family Winery: 2021 Kit’s Killer Cab
A personal favorite for making celebrations feel special. This Napa Valley Cabernet, from organically farmed grapes in the Oak Knoll District, is bright and juicy with sun-ripened raspberry and blueberry flavors, complemented by cedar and mocha notes. It pairs wonderfully with holiday feasts, from roasts to cheese boards. Order online or visit their winery.
Tooth & Nail Wine Co.: 2021 Amor Fati Blanc de Blancs
A polished, festive sparkling wine from Chardonnay grown in the Santa Lucia Highlands. Crisp and dry with pear, golden apple, and lemon-lime notes, plus a hint of brioche. Its lively acidity makes it ideal for toasts and appetizers. Available online.
Banshee: 2022 Sonoma County Pinot Noir
A reliable, accessible choice that offers great value. This Pinot Noir is smooth and approachable, with bright cherry and raspberry flavors, a touch of black tea, and a silky finish. Extremely food-friendly and perfect for holiday hosting without stretching your budget. Easily found in grocery stores and wine shops.
Larson Family Winery: 2022 Millerick Road Meritage
With generations of Sonoma winemaking, Larson approaches their craft with joy. This Meritage blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Merlot from three Sonoma AVAs offers dark fruit, cassis, fig, and plum with a plush texture. Oak is present but restrained, providing structure and a long finish. Only 202 cases produced. Available online or at their Carneros winery.
Ridge Vineyards: 2023 Three Valleys Red
A benchmark producer offering serious quality at a reasonable price. This wine, made with a low-intervention philosophy, is generous and polished with ripe raspberry and blueberry flavors layered with plum, licorice, pepper, and a savory edge. Medium-bodied and food-friendly, especially with beef or lamb. Widely available.
Baldacci Family Vineyards: 2022 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon
An impressive Napa Cabernet that sparks conversation. Polished yet approachable, with rich black cherry, blackberry, and cola spice, followed by sagebrush, bay laurel, tobacco, and a hint of blood orange. Firm tannins provide structure without aggression. Only 720 cases made. Order online for a memorable holiday pour.
Korbel Natural Sparkling Wine
A consistently excellent and affordable California sparkling option. Crisp and dry, with bright green apple from Chardonnay and tart cherry and raspberry notes from Pinot Noir. Refreshing and versatile, perfect for morning mimosas or evening toasts. Easily found in stores or online.
Support Thoughtful Producers
Your purchasing decisions significantly impact the wine industry, especially smaller wineries. Consider ordering these bottles online, seeking them out locally, or visiting the vineyards. Choosing wines from intentional producers adds meaning to your holiday table and supports valuable craft.
