During the gifting season, I am inclined to wander the wine aisles at the Costco near me hoping for a wine or two that speaks to me. The wines that speak loudest are typically my go-to wines. They’ve become my go-to wines because they are reliable, regardless of vintage.
For example, if I spy anything from Guigal, Chapoutier or Jean-Luc Colombo — three great producers from France’s Rhone Valley — into the shopping cart it goes. The same goes for Cakebread, Spottswoode or Duckhorn — three great producers from California’s Napa Valley. Or Merry Edwards, Dutton-Goldfield and Jordan — three of my faves from California’s Sonoma County.
The beauty of having a number of go-to wines is you really don’t have to think too much. They are no-brainers. In the spirit of the season, I offer these humble gifting suggestions for go-to, no-brainer wines from a few of the most popular categories.
Champagne: Moet & Chandon is widely available and rock solid. Bruno Paillard, Charles Heidsieck, Laurent-Perrier (particularly the rosé) and A.R. Lenoble would also be on my short list.
Domestic Sparkling: You can’t go wrong with anything from Domaine Carneros by Taittinger. Ditto Roederer Estate, Mumm Napa Valley, Chandon and J Vineyards.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Cakebread (especially the Dancing Bear Ranch), Spottswoode, Far Niente, Jordan, Nickel & Nickel (especially the Stelling Vineyard) and Corison all make excellent stocking stuffers.
Merlot: Duckhorn, Chateau St. Jean, Northstar and Nickel & Nickel should be on everyone’s shopping list.
Pinot Noir: You won’t go wrong with any Pinot Noir from Merry Edwards, Dutton-Goldfield, Talbott, Goldeneye, Foxen or Roar.
Chardonnay: Merry Edwards, Shafer, Dutton-Goldfield, Tongue Dancer and Sonoma-Cutrer will please even the most discriminating palates.
Sauvignon Blanc: Duckhorn, Spottswoode and Merry Edwards are the Big Three, but Silverado, Cakebread and Cloudy Bay won’t disappoint, either.
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