Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer. It’s a time for firing up the grill, dusting off the picnic blanket, and enjoying a well-earned extra day off with friends, food, and of course, wine. It also happens to be the perfect excuse to keep your wine picks close to home. Supporting American wineries isn’t just patriotic, it’s delicious. From bold California reds to the crisp, cool elegance of Oregon wines, American wines offer a full spectrum of styles and flavors. Perfect for everything from backyard burgers to beachside snacks. So, whether you’re hosting a cookout or just looking for the perfect bottle to bring to the party, we’ve got you covered with wine picks that are as all-American as the long weekend itself.
Bezel
Launched in February 2025, Bezel is a new wine brand from the renowned Cakebread Cellars family, bringing over 50 years of winemaking expertise to California’s Central Coast. With vineyards in Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo, Bezel crafts vibrant, fruit-forward wines that capture the essence of the region’s diverse terroirs. Their portfolio includes a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a bright Chardonnay, a lively Pinot Noir, and a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, all designed to elevate everyday occasions. Each bottle reflects the Cakebread family’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship, making Bezel a perfect choice for Memorial Day celebrations and beyond.
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Cakebread
Founded in 1973, Cakebread Cellars is a cornerstone of Napa Valley winemaking, known for its elegant, balanced wines and unwavering commitment to quality. Family-owned and operated, Cakebread has built a legacy around sustainable farming, meticulous vineyard care, and a refined winemaking style that showcases the purity of the fruit. Best known for its signature Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, the winery also offers standout Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Noir. Whether you’re pouring a glass alongside grilled seafood or a perfectly charred steak, Cakebread wines bring a touch of Napa sophistication to any Memorial Day table.
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Domaine Carneros
Perched in the rolling hills between Napa and Sonoma, Domaine Carneros is a sparkling gem inspired by the Champagne tradition but rooted firmly in California soil. Founded in 1987 by the Taittinger family of Champagne fame, the winery specializes in Méthode Traditionnelle sparkling wines and elegant Pinot Noir, all crafted from estate-grown fruit in the cool Carneros AVA. Known for its stately château and sustainable practices, Domaine Carneros delivers bubbles that are both luxurious and approachable. Whether you’re toasting the start of summer or elevating your Memorial Day brunch, their Brut, Rosé, or Ultra Brut adds the perfect celebratory touch.
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Résonance
Nestled in Oregon’s famed Willamette Valley, Résonance blends Old World finesse with New World expression. Founded by the esteemed Maison Louis Jadot, one of Burgundy’s most respected wine houses, Résonance is their first venture outside of France, and it shows in every detail. The winery focuses on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, showcasing the purity, depth, and terroir-driven character that the region is known for. With organically farmed estate vineyards and a philosophy rooted in minimal intervention, Résonance wines offer a graceful balance of structure and freshness — perfect for pairing with grilled salmon, roast chicken, or simply sipping on a laid-back Memorial Day afternoon.
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Sequoia Grove
Located in the heart of Rutherford along Napa Valley’s famed Highway 29, Sequoia Grove has been crafting classic, terroir-driven wines since 1979. Surrounded by majestic redwoods, the winery is best known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, a rich, structured red that reflects the power and elegance of its Rutherford roots. In addition to its acclaimed Cabernets, Sequoia Grove produces beautifully balanced Chardonnay and red blends that are perfect for food pairing. With a focus on sustainable farming and small-lot winemaking, their wines bring bold flavor and Napa pedigree to any Memorial Day gathering, especially alongside grilled meats or hearty veggie skewers.
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St. Francis
Tucked away in the scenic Sonoma Valley, St. Francis Winery has been crafting exceptional wines since 1979, with a focus on sustainable farming and deep respect for the land. Known for their bold, fruit-forward Zinfandel and richly textured Cabernet Sauvignon, St. Francis captures the essence of Sonoma’s diverse terroirs in every bottle. Their wines are crafted to be approachable yet complex, with layers of flavor that pair perfectly with everything from grilled meats to rich cheeses. For Memorial Day, St. Francis offers the ideal balance of tradition and innovation, bringing a touch of Sonoma’s vibrant wine culture to your celebration.
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As Memorial Day brings us together to celebrate the start of summer, it’s the perfect time to raise a glass with wines that showcase the very best of American winemaking. From the vibrant, fruit-forward wines of Bezel and Sequoia Grove to the refined elegance of Cakebread and Domaine Carneros, there’s an American wine for every gathering and every palate. These wines elevate your Memorial Day moments and reflect the passion and craftsmanship of American wineries. So, this Memorial Day, let’s toast to great wines, good company, and the spirit of American craftsmanship. Cheers!
