The White Wine Gift Guide

The holidays are coming, and I’m so excited that it's time to dive into all this season has to offer. You might not be picturing a citrus-driven glass of wine while snowflakes fall around your house like a winter wonderland, but some white wines are perfect for cold nights, celebrations, or just for a relaxing evening. When browsing through a site listing of different wines, it can be hard to choose, but there is something for everyone in the world of white wine. I mean, who knew there was a wine bottle dedicated to Game of Thrones? (I did!) So, trust me on this — there is something here for everyone on your gift list and for any party you may be attending! Keep reading to find my favorite white wines to give or enjoy.

Sun Goddess Sauvignon Blanc

Sun Goddess Sauvignon blanc is a collaboration with Mary J. Blige and famed wine-maker Marco Fantinel. I know, I know, another celebrity making wine. Don’t let that stop you from reaching for this bottle. The wine is not only packaged in a beautiful bottle and label, but it scores high ratings with taste. Sourced from Northern Italy and known for its crisp examples of white wine, the name is reflective of Mary’s endless love for the warmth and energy of the sun. This would also be a cool gift for a Mary J. Blige fan!

Game of Thrones Chardonnay

“Winter is coming…”This Chardonnay was created by Bob Cabral, a self-described fan of Game of Thrones fan and a well-respected winemaker. This means the Chardonnay won’t disappoint anyone you gift it to. The only requirement for this wine should be to sit back, relax, and watch the war of the iron throne.

Olivier Leflaive 2017 Puligny Montrachet

When in doubt, gift a bottle of wine from Bourgogne. The golden slope of the Côte d’Or produces long aging Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. This is one of those wines that once you taste you will never drink anything else. 2017 was a great growing season which can be atypical in the region. Puligny-Montrachet is a cherished village in Burgundy’s Cote de Beaune. Your recipient will savor the complex aromas and elegant finish.

Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label

Sparkling wine is the go-to for parties and celebrations. After all, who doesn’t love bubbles? The sparkling wine category covers a few different subsets such as Champagne, Cava and Prosecco. Champagne is an appellation (which is a designated area) in France. Champagne allows three grape varietals to be used legally: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. This Champagne is a classic blend from the region, and the party will only get better when you show up with a bottle of Veuve in your hand. Plus, everyone recognizes that label!

Gran Moraine Sparkling Brut Rosé

Oregon is crafting some of my favorite wines at this moment. Gran Moraine was founded in 2013 by Eugenia Keegan of Jackson Family to create a sophisticated wine from Willamette Valley. This sparkling wine is made from Chardonnay and pinot noir and dances around the palate with elegance and subtle fruit flavors.

Campo Viejo Cava Brut Reserva

Cava is Spanish sparkling wine that is often overlooked for Champagne. Cava’s rise in smaller producers is churning out some amazing bubbles. Even better, it’s a great value. Cava mostly comes from Cataluña (95%) and is also made in the traditional method. This is the perfect gift to bring to a party — you’ll have plenty of sparkling wine to share!

Capensis Western Cape Chardonnay

South Africa has been producing top-quality wines for years but is often overshadowed by its European counterparts. Capensis is taken from Latin, meaning “from the cape.” The Western Cape has the perfect climate for the chardonnay grape. This wine is aged in French and neutral oak, leading to an aromatic wine that represents South Africa well. This is the perfect gift for that person who is filled with wanderlust.

Susana Balbo Signature Brioso White Blend

Susana Balbo is the first woman in Argentina to earn a degree in enology (the study of wine). She went on to create Susana Balbo winery and is consistently crafting quality wines. This is a unique blend of white grape varietals: sauvignon blanc, Semillon and torrones. This wine is aromatic with floral and citrus flavors that leave your mouth watering for more. Trust me — just try it. While you’re at it, make sure you raise a glass to all the incredible women winemakers out there!

Jermann Pinot Grigio Friuli DOC

Thanks to Italy, pinot grigio has become popular worldwide. This wine is a crowd favorite because of its simple aromas and flavors. It can be sipped on its own or while snacking on a cheese plate. Pinot Grigio is produced all over the world, but Northern Italy holds the spotlight. Friuli Venezia Giulia, where this wine is produced, borders the Alps. The cool climates give this wine the acidity and citrus flavors that will sure to be a hit with your recipient.

Far Niente Chardonnay

Sometimes you just need a little California magic. Far Niente is a famed winery in Oakville known for quality winemaking and wine. This wine is a classic Chardonnay that will enhance any meal or occasion. If you get a chance, visit the winery. It's a gorgeous spot!

Château d'Yquem Sauternes

Arguably one of the most famous wines of Bordeaux. This chateau was at the top of the list for Thomas Jefferson in the 1700s. It has continued to make history as one of the top sweet wines in the world. This process of making the wine is legendary, with careful attention paid to each and every grape. The wine is made by allowing grapes to fully ripen and develop botrytis cinerea (AKA Noble rot). The grapes are hand-picked with each vine usually creating only one glass of wine. Savor every sip.

Now it is time to decide which one of these delicious wines to choose. Whatever the occasion is, these wines will enhance the evening. If you want to be that “extra” friend, you can engrave the bottle or pick some gorgeous wine glasses to go along with the gift. There are so many options at your holiday fingertips! When you finally have that perfect wine, just sit back, relax, and enjoy!