by Robert Giles

She's been there for you through all the learning and trials of growing up, and you just want to show her how much you care. A spring brunch or luncheon on the patio can be the perfect way to do that. There's no need to go fancy, but you can always grab some fun wines to enjoy together while you catch up.

Pinot Grigio can be a great light wine for pairing if you want to enjoy a lighter meal with a focus on fruits and sweeter foods. Bottega Vinaia from the Trentino region has a strong floral aroma with notes of citrus, leading to a palate of apple and stone fruit with a slight mineral finish. This wine can complement a fruit and yogurt spread as easily as it can pair with a hollandaise. On the other hand, Pighin Pinot Grigio from Friuli will give a slightly stronger fruit forward nature balanced with a structured acidity. This can pair with slightly heavier entrees such as Croque Monsieur.

For something light with a little bit of tannic properties, you can go with Rosé. This versatile varietal can pair with sausage and ham or light fruits and creamy cheeses. Iris Rosé of Pinot Noir provides a tart grapefruit note with hints of strawberry. It’s delicious with a spinach and goat cheese omelet. Fleur de Mer Rosé is a Provençal style with more floral aromas and a palate of raspberry and white peach that pairs perfectly with lox and bagels and herbal cream cheese.

If sparkling wine and mimosas are your thing, there are wonderful possibilities! Gruet Brut, with its bright aromas and lime palate, is a good match with mushroom omelets and grilled salmon. Cava is another great sparkling wine from Spain; one of my favorite Cavas is Segura Viudas Reserva Heredad. Aromas of honey and just-ripe fruit lead into a strong citrus palate and finish with a yeasty note. It pairs well with rotisserie chicken and fruit salads. Both of these sparkling wines make wonderful mimosas, whether you’re using orange juice, pineapple juice, or trying our own cranberry mimosa.

This are just the beginning of the possibilities. You may have a very specific dish in mind and our wine experts can give you that perfect pairing for it. Remember, though, to keep it light and fun. She may be your mom, but she might just also be one of your best friends.