November 2026 Wine Club

Let's think holidays and specifically Thanksgiving with these wines. Both examples will work great with your holiday meal or Chef James' recipes.

From the renowned wine-growing region of Alsace in northeastern France, Pierre Sparr Grande Réserve Riesling is a wonderful example of the elegance and precision that make Alsatian Riesling so highly regarded. This expressive white wine opens with aromas of fresh lime and lemon zest, green apple, white peach, and floral notes. The palate is crisp and refreshing, offering layers of citrus and orchard fruit supported by vibrant acidity and a delicate mineral backbone. Typically dry in style, the wine finishes refreshingly clean and lively, with excellent balance.

Riesling is one of Alsace's most celebrated grape varieties. Unlike many sweeter interpretations of Riesling found elsewhere, Alsatian Rieslings are often fermented dry, allowing the grape's natural acidity, fruit character, and mineral qualities to shine. Alsace's location creates a relatively sunny, dry climate, allowing grapes to ripen slowly while retaining their refreshing acidity. This combination produces wines that are aromatic, structured, and exceptionally food-friendly.

Elegant, refreshing, and beautifully balanced, this is a classic French Riesling that offers plenty of character without feeling heavy. A wonderful bottle for those who appreciate bright fruit, crisp acidity, and a clean, mineral-driven finish.

🍽️ Pairing & Holiday Serving Tips

• Holiday Table Partner: Roasted turkey, herb stuffing, pork tenderloin, and creamy savory casseroles.
• Why It Works: Fermented dry with lively acidity, this Riesling slices straight through rich holiday dishes and gravies without overpowering delicate poultry flavors.

For something a little different, this month's selection from Folk Machine showcases Valdiguié, an often-overlooked French grape variety that has found a special home in California. Sourced from historic, organically farmed vineyards in Mendocino's Redwood Valley, this lively red offers plenty of personality. Aromas of fresh raspberry, cranberry, and pomegranate lead into flavors of tart cherry, juicy berries, and earthy notes.

Bright acidity, balanced tannins, and a lighter-bodied structure make this wine incredibly refreshing and easy to enjoy. Think of it as California's answer to a juicy Beaujolais, with a fresh, energetic character and a slightly rustic edge.

Valdiguié originated in southwestern France but developed a following in California, where it was historically known as "Napa Gamay" because of its resemblance to Gamay, the grape behind Beaujolais. The name was eventually corrected in 1980. Folk Machine has championed this lesser-known grape, bottling it on its own since 2009. Fresh, vibrant, and delightfully versatile, this is a fun red for anyone looking to explore beyond the usual suspects.

🍽️ Serving Tips & Holiday Pairings

• Pro Tip: Serve with a light chill to highlight its bright cranberry and juicy berry notes!
• Pair With: Thanksgiving turkey, cranberry relish, roasted duck, charcuterie boards, and Chef James' holiday recipes.

Great wine isn't about status or complex jargon—it's about the people behind the bottle, the places they come from, and the joy of finding a new favorite.

You don't need to be a sommelier to explore world-class vineyards. Every month, Beverage Director Jason Kerstein hand-selects two remarkable wines with incredible stories to tell—pairing them with straightforward food ideas so you can just uncork and enjoy.

What's waiting for you every month:

• 2 Hand-Picked Bottles from around the world (typically one white and one red).
• Jason's Tasting & Food Pairing Guide so you know exactly what dishes bring out the best in every pour.
• 10% Off all extra bottle purchases in our Bottle Shop.
• Exclusive Recipe from Chef James and our culinary team.
• The Joy of the Unknown: An effortless way to step outside your usual routine and try something new each month.

Take a delicious detour from your usual routine.

Current Members & Pickup Info: Monthly totes are available for pickup at the Story Hill BKC Bottle Shop.

Looking to grab another bottle of past features like the Pierre Sparr Grande Réserve Riesling or Folk Machine Valdiguié? Stop by the shop or ask your server during your next dinner visit!