Mother’s Day inspiration

You may think she wants chocolate or flowers, but a terrific wine might just bowl her over.

Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut nonvintage (Sonoma County, CA), $18. In the make-her-feel-special department, here’s a frothy sparkler with light cream, fresh apple, and snappy lemon-zest flavors ― and it won’t break the bank.

Smith-Madrone Riesling 2001 (Napa Valley), $17. Elegant and expressive (maybe like your mom?). Great fresh citrus and apricot flavors, with a hint of anise.

Cristom “Mount Jefferson” Pinot Noir 2000 (Willamette Valley, OR), $25. Sensual dark cherry and earthy aromas and flavors, with hints of spiced tea and espresso ― full of personality.

Wolf Blass “Red Label” Shiraz-Cabernet Sauvignon 1998 (South Australia), $12. Make her dinner (roast chicken would be perfect), set the table nicely, and pour her a glass of this juicy red with briary ripe-blackberry flavors.

WRAPPING ALTERNATIVE: Tired of the standard gift bag? Try simple round labels instead ― we used 3/4-inch and 1-inch circles ― to put a festive message right on the bottle. Tint the labels with colored markers. ― Jil Peters

Sunset’s Wine Club