Spending time with Mom this Sunday, May 12? Surely there will be dining involved – maybe even dessert – and serving or gifting an elegant bottle of wine would be the icing on the cake. Uncork these fresh picks in all price ranges that marry superbly with spring fare. Cheers to all the marvelous moms this Mother’s Day!

Avaline

Made with organic grapes and no chemical additives, actor Cameron Diaz and Katherine Power’s wines have transparent information on the labels, so you know what you’re drinking. Its lightly oaked chardonnay sings with ripe apricot and pear leaving a smooth finish – and the screw top makes entertaining a snap.

Benovia 2022 Martaella Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

It’s difficult to choose just one varietal from this powerhouse portfolio made in Sonoma County, CA. But we’re going with sustainably farmed Martaella Estate Vineyard chardonnay. The name is a mash-up of Benovia’s co-founders’ mothers’ names: Martha and Eleanor, the the moms of Mary Dewane and Joe Anderson, who founded Benovia. “Aromas of Meyer lemon, yellow peach, and ripe summer melon with a vivacious mouth feel, centered acidity, and a long-complex white peach finish,” is a tasting note from winemaker-partner Mike Sullivan.

Bricoleur Vineyards Isla Rose Brut Rosé

Co-founded by the Hanson’s and their daughter, Sarah Hanson Citron, Sonoma County’s Bricoleur Vineyards is known for their refreshing sauvignon blanc, flagship pinot noir, and Isla Rose Brut Rosé, made in honor of Sarah’s first born. The aromatic sparkler dances on the palate – think wild strawberries and citrus blossom with an earthy mineral finish. Sarah was recently honored as one of the top community and business leaders in Northern California under the age of 40. In addition to being the co-founder and COO of Bricoleur Vineyards, she’s also an advocate for cancer research. She established the Sip with Purpose campaign, which has already raised almost $50,000. For every bottle of Isla Rose Brut Rosé purchased, Bricoleur Vineyards donates $5 to the V Foundation for cancer research – and for every case that’s purchased, the Hanson Family will match with a $60 donation to the V Foundation, also for cancer research. 

Lyric 2022 Monterey County Pinot Noir 

For poetry in a bottle, Lyric brings the unique flavors and textures of Monterey County to life. Bright and smooth with notes of fresh strawberry and raspberry, expect balanced acidity, fruit, and oak. Sip on its own or serve alongside grilled vegetables, chicken, salmon or pork.

Theorem 2022 Moon Mountain Sauvignon Blanc

Houston-based Jason and Kisha Itkin’s exquisite Calistoga winery just released its sauvignon blanc. The full-bodied beauty flaunts notes of tart white peach, Gravenstein apple, lemongrass and creaminess on the palate. What a lovely gift for Mom along with Theorem’s luxurious Estate Candle Collection. Trust us, a must!  

DAOU Vineyards 2022 Estate Chardonnay

If you want a special bottle for a special lady, look no further than DAOU in Paso Robles, CA. There is no expense spared crafting these wines. Honeysuckle, tropical fruit and creamy oak envelope the nose, and rich flavors of guava and quince surge the palate leaving a satiny finish. Worth the splurge!

Designation of Origin Albarino Rias Baixas

So many sassy DO Rias Baixas wines, so little time! This famous wine growing region is located northwest of Spain. Fragrant and crisply fruity Santiago Ruiz 2022 is one impressive choice for Mom’s glass, and the fun hand drawn map on the label might inspire a trip to Spain.

Etude 2020 Carneros Pinot Gris

More than just a leading producer of California pinot noir, Etude is committed to stewarding its land and preserving native ecosystems by practicing holistic farming practices. Its classic cool climate pinot gris offers lovely floral aromatics with tropical notes of guava and white peach. Round with a lean line of acidity and rich mouthfeel, this will become mom’s go-to for white wine with oomph.  

Feudo Maccari Grillo Olli 2023

Thinking about a picnic or alfresco lunch? Here’s an expressive Italian white that’s as golden as sunshine with notes of yellow peaches, mint, lemon and sweet almond that pairs great with charcuterie and cheeses.

Heath Sparkling Wines

Nothing like a little bubbly to get the party started. This Texas based winery crafts at least four different varietals, so there is something for everyone. Perhaps Adoration (pinot noir rosé brut) might be her cup of tea? For an adventurous day, take mom to the contemporary cutting-edge winery in the Texas Hill Country!

Imagery Estate Winery Pinot Noir 2022

Velvety with layered notes of strawberry, cherry and boysenberry, this pinot has complex flavors with soft tannins and a layered finish. Perfect with pan seared salmon or create a grazing board using its Perfect Cheese Pairings guide.

JNSQ

This California rosé cru blushing in a gorgeous bottle with a sculpted flower stopper, isn’t just a pretty face with a certain je ne sais quoi. The aromatic Grenache-forward rosé is crisp and elegant. The keepsake bottle was designed to be used afterwards for displaying olive oils, bath salts or even a bouquet of flowers. (Petite $18/full $29)

BUY WINES: Online at each winery; Spec’s; HEB; Total Wine & More; Houston Wine Merchant (note: the latter will order wines if they don’t carry it and can locate it).

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Cover photo courtesy Etude Wine.

Robin Barr Sussman ([email protected]) is a freelance culinary and travel writer who studied at the Culinary Institute of America Greystone, Calif. As a chef for Sonoma County wineries, her specialty was food and wine pairing. Sussman is a columnist for Houston Modern Luxury Magazine, Houston CityBook, Prime Living and Houston House & Home. Her work also appears in Texas Monthly, Fodor’s and Private Clubs Magazine.