Sure, California produces some pretty good bottles, but trailblazing Southern winemakers have been working hard to figure out which grapes grow best in their vineyards—and the quality of their wines has been steadily rising as a result. As you’re stocking up for holiday gatherings, keep an eye out for these five feast-friendly bottles. They’ll keep your guests in good spirits, and they won’t take a giant bite out of your wallet either.


1) NV Thibaut-Janisson Brut; Afton, Virginia
Made by Claude Thibaut, who until 2003 made Champagne in France, and his partner Manuel Janisson, who still does, this all-Chardonnay sparkler is perfect for celebratory toasts and goes great with appetizers to boot. Around $27

2) 2009 Linden Seyval Blanc; Fauquier County, Virginia
Winemaker Jim Law has been a pioneer in the Virginia wine scene since 1981, and this bright, citrusy Seyval Blanc shows why he’s been so successful. Seyval Blanc pairs well with the same sorts of food as Sauvignon Blanc, such as oysters and lighter white fish. $20
 
3) 2008 Duchman Family Dolcetto; Driftwood, Texas
Spanish and Italian grape varieties like Dolcetto, Sangiovese, and Tempranillo have found an unlikely but agreeable home in the Texas Hill Country. The Duchman family’s fruity and easy-going Dolcetto is a no-brainer alongside the Thanksgiving bird and savory stuffing. $15

4) 2010 Boxwood Estate Rosé; Middleburg, Virginia
Dry rosé, like this one from Rita and John Kent Cooke's state-of-the art winery, combines the fruit and juiciness of a red wine with the lightness of a white wine, so it complements but never competes with the meal. $9

5) 2009 McPherson Sangiovese; Lubbock, Texas
Winemaker Kim McPherson’s father helped launch the wine industry in Texas more than forty years ago, and the family has been producing consistently fine bottles ever since. This cherry-rich Sangiovese, which was selected as the 125th anniversary commemorative wine at this year's State Fair of Texas, is perfect for the big-red lover. $18