Best Wine picks for Special Occasion—Find Your Perfect Bottle!

Tue, Mar 04, 25

Alexander Valley may be part of a bigger story, but neighboring Mendocino County shares the same passion for exceptional wines. It offers everything from bold reds to crisp whites, all crafted with sustainable practices.

Together, Mendocino and Alexander Valley represent the best of California’s winemaking spirit, making them must-try destinations for anyone wanting to experience the full range of California wines.

So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to explore the beauty of Alexander Valley. Shop premium California wines at Arlington Wine and Liquor!

Wines have this way of making any moment feel a little more special. Celebrating a big win, hanging out with friends, or just kicking back after a long day— the right bottle sets the tone, pairs perfectly with your food, and creates memories that stick around.

We get it—picking the perfect wine can feel like a challenge with all the options out there. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate wine list, handpicking the best bottles for every occasion. Ready to dive into the best bottles—from reds to bubbles? Let’s go!

Sparkling Wines: Perfect for Celebrations and Toasts

Sparkling wines are synonymous with celebration. There’s something inherently joyful about them—the effervescent bubbles, the delicate aromas, and that satisfying pop of the cork. They’re the go-to drink for special moments, but sparkling wines aren’t just for grand occasions. They can add a touch of elegance to quiet evenings, casual gatherings, or even serve as the perfect midweek pick-me-up. Here are our sparkling wine suggestions for any occasion.

Benmarl Winery - Petillant 2021 (750ml)

Delightful profile with notes of tart ruby red grapefruit and blood orange. Pairs with soft cheeses, bacon-wrapped dates, or roasted vegetables.

Mumm Napa - Brut Prestige (750ml)

Crisp, elegant sparkling wine with floral apple, baked pear, citrus, and creamy vanilla flavors, highlighted by a hint of yeasty spice and a smooth finish. Pairs with sushi rolls, fried chicken to a bowl of truffle popcorn.

Schramsberg - Mirabelle Blanc de Blancs (750ml)

Crisp sparkling wine with vibrant flavors of Pink Lady apple, lemon zest, apricot, and toasted almonds, finishing with a long, flavorful aftertaste. Pairs with fresh oysters, other shellfish, crab cakes, ceviche, grilled sea bass, fried chicken.

White Wines: Casual Dinners and Summer Gatherings

Copy_of_Copy_of_white_wines_(4)_(1)_(1).png

White wines are a go-to for just about any occasion. They’re refreshing, light, and easy to sip, making them perfect for everything from casual hangouts to dinner parties. Plus, they pair well with a wide range of foods, so you can’t go wrong no matter what you’re serving.

When it comes to selecting the best wine picks for special occasions, white wines are a versatile and delightful choice that can elevate any event, whether it’s a simple get-together or a more sophisticated celebration. Here are our top picks

Santi - Pinot Grigio Sortesele 2023 (750ml)

This Italian white from Delle Venezia offers delicate pear and exotic fruit aromas, lively fruit flavors, and a crisp, long finish. Pairs with light dishes such as seafood, poultry, salads, hard cheeses, and risotto.

Santi - Pinot Grigio Sortesele 2023 (750ml)

This Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc blends lime, lemongrass, and fresh herbs with grapefruit and tropical fruit flavors, delivering a bright, zesty profile and a juicy finish. Pairs with fish, shellfish, and salads.

Clean Slate Riesling 2023 (750ml)

This Germany’s Mosel Valley white wine is a vibrant, balanced wine with lively acidity, minerality, and flavors of ripe peach and fresh citrus, offering a crisp, versatile profile. Pairs with seafood, sushi, and light salads.

Red Wines: Cozy Meals and Formal Occasions

Copy_of_Copy_of_Copy_of_white_wines_(1)_(1).png

Red wine is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a laid-back dinner or a grand celebration. Its versatility, rich flavors, and timeless charm make it the perfect choice to elevate any moment, making it one of the best wines for special occasions. Not sure where to start? Here are some top reds to try:

Routestock Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2021

Vibrant red fruit flavors with earthy undertones, balanced by bright acidity and a smooth texture. Pairs beautifully with dishes like roasted chicken, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, or more.

Catena Malbec

Catena Malbec, from Argentina’s Mendoza region, offers rich flavors of ripe plum, blackberry, and floral notes, balanced with smooth texture. Pairs with grilled meats like steak or lamb, as well as hearty dishes like barbecued ribs and more.

Familia Torres - Altos Ibericos Rioja Reserva 2017 (750ml)

A complex yet approachable wine, it offers a rich blend of ripe fruit, oak, and velvety tannins, crafted from Tempranillo. Pairs with roasted lamb, grilled steaks, tapas, or aged cheeses like Manchego.

French Wines: Sophisticated Choice for Special Dinners

Copy_of_Copy_of_Copy_of_Copy_of_white_wines_(2)_(1).png

When it comes to sophistication, few countries rival France’s reputation for producing some of the world’s finest wines. French wines are a symbol of quality, elegance, and history, making them best wine for special occasion that demands a touch of class.

Domaine Durand — Sancerre

Domaine Durand’s Sancerre 2020, made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc, offers vibrant citrus and mineral notes with a smooth, harmonious finish. Pairs with fresh seafood, goat cheese, oysters, or a light salad with citrus dressing.

Joseph Drouhin Bourgogne Pinot Noir

Fresh, elegant red with red fruit aromas and subtle earthy notes, perfectly showcasing Burgundy’s signature style. Pairs with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, mushroom dishes, or soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert.

Chateau Simard Saint-Emilion

Rich, full-bodied Bordeaux blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, offering smooth tannins and vibrant fruit flavors. Pairs with grilled meats, roasted lamb, braised beef, or aged cheeses like Comté and Gruyère.

Prosecco Wines: Best for Brunches and Light Celebrations

Copy_of_Copy_of_Copy_of_Copy_of_white_wines_(3)_(1).png

Prosecco is Italy’s sparkling gem, known for its light, refreshing taste. It’s one of the best wine for special occasions, casual celebrations, brunches, or just as an aperitif to add a little bubbly touch to any occasion. Here are our top picks for Proseccos.

La Marca Prosecco

Vibrant citrus and honeysuckle aromas, with fruity notes of green apple, peach, and lemon, finishing with a touch of sweetness. Pairs with seafood, mild cheeses, light pasta, and desserts.

Cupcake Extra Dry

Bright citrus, lemon mousse, and baked pear, with a smooth, refreshing finish. It pairs perfectly with seafood paella, garlic shrimp, light appetizers, or a brunch mimosa.

Jeio Rosé

Jeio Rosé dazzles with citrus, rose, and wild strawberry notes, offering a fresh and balanced finish. It pairs beautifully with seafood, light salads, mild cheeses, or fruit tarts.

Make Every Occasion Special with the Right Wine

No matter the occasion, the right wine can take your celebration to the next level. Whether you prefer the elegance of French Champagne, the richness of Italian Barolo, or the refreshing sparkle of Prosecco, every wine has its unique way of enhancing your experience. With the perfect bottle, your event becomes more memorable, turning even the simplest moments into something extraordinary.

Shop Our Wine Collection Today

Browse our curated selection of wines and discover the perfect match for your next celebration. Whether it's a dinner party, a special toast, or a casual get-together, we have the wine that will make your occasion truly unforgettable. Check out Our latest Wine and Liquor and celebrate in style!

By Arlington Wine and Liquor