‘Tis the season of giving and of giving back. And when you gift one of these wines to your family, friends, and work associates, you’ll accomplish both. These producers are going above and beyond in their production of delicious wines. For every bottle purchased, each winery contributes to various societal causes. Choose your bottle based on taste preference, or base your choice on a greater good. Either way, a purchase spreads holiday cheer in more ways than one. It’s a win(e)-win(e).
Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards & Winery hosted the 2022 Sonoma County Wine Auction and in addition, donated two live auction lots, helping to contribute to the generous funds raised for local charitable organizations. Chalk Hill also made a significant donation to Future Farmers of America this year to encourage agricultural education for youths. The winery also makes substantial weekly donations of fresh produce from its three-acre organic culinary garden to local food banks. The stunning 1,300 acre Chalk Hill property features 300 acres of vineyards set among wilderness areas and the culinary garden. Gift a taste of this special Sonoma spot with the 2020 Chalk Hill Estate Chardonnay ($48).
Sosie is a small winery in Sonoma County with a big heart. Knowing that wine imitates art, the winery supports San Francisco performing arts organizations and is also an annual sponsor of the beloved Bouquets to Art exhibit at the de Young Museum. Sosie means “spitting image” or “twin” in French and the name aptly describes the winery’s affinity for both French and California varietals. Enjoy Sosie’s 2019 Pinot Noir, Spring Hill Vineyard, Sonoma Coast ($49) from three Pinot Noir clones grown on the wet and windy coveted Spring Hill site.
Line 39 Wines continues its ‘Plate It Forward’ program in support of food insecurity. This B Corp certified wine company is committed to supporting efforts that resonate with their consumers, and year after year, food insecurity is at the top of the list. Throughout this holiday season, Line 39 will donate $45,000 to participating food banks, resulting in more than 20,000 meals provided across the country. Support Plate It Forward with an affordable holiday favorite, Line 39’s 2019 Merlot ($11).
Rombauer Vineyards has generously supported organizations within local communities for more than 40 years. The family has focused on giving to local wine country causes, cancer research, and veterans support. With long term vision, the Rombauers established a $4 million endowment for the Joan Rombauer UCSF Endowed Fellowship to support cancer research. They also give annually to veterans projects as winery founder Koerner Rombauer served in the California Air National Guard; today, his grandson serves in the United States Air Force. Rombauer invites you to Share the Joy of Wine this holiday season; it is what inspires them every day and it is the secret ingredient in every bottle of their wines. Enjoy the Sierra Foothills Rombauer 2020 California Zinfandel ($35), and like joy, it is best when shared with others.
Symington Family Estates, producers of some of the finest Ports in the world for five generations, is the first winery in Portugal to become B Corp certified. Focusing on social sustainability, the family supports the local communities in the Douro Valley and the Alto Alentejo where their vineyards and wineries are located. Symington Family Estates has provided 13 ambulances to the regions, and has partnered with a local organization that provides education and opportunities for underprivileged children in the rugged Douro Valley. Serve the iconic Graham’s Six Grapes Reserve Port ($27) with dessert at your holiday table.
Photos courtesy of each winery. Main image by Fran Miller