The holiday season kicks off shortly and with it, gatherings with family — chosen and otherwise! This month, we are excited to share our picks for page-turners about families of all kinds with wines produced by some of our favorite families. This Thanksgiving, whether you’re looking to check out a different family dynamic or searching for representation on the page, we’ve got the perfect pairing. 

Bear Necessity by James Gould-Bourn
Cambrian Rock First Born Heathcote Shiraz 2020

After observing street performers in a local park, Danny spends his last few dollars on a tattered panda costume, impulsively deciding to become a dancing bear. While performing one day, Danny spots his son, Will, being bullied by a group of older boys. Danny chases them off, and Will opens up for the first time since his mom died, unaware that the man in the panda costume is his father. Afraid of disclosing his true identity, Danny comforts his son. But will Danny lose Will’s trust once he reveals who he is? And will he be able to dance his way out of despair? As you dive into this father-son relationship, sip on this rich, full-bodied red wine with decadent notes of dark fruits, tobacco, and mocha. Whether you’re a first born or not, everyone can enjoy this stunning Australian wine. 

Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
Freres Carod Pet Nat NV

When Lydia’s body is found in the local lake, the delicate balancing act that has been keeping the Lee family together is destroyed, tumbling them into chaos. James, Lydia’s father, is consumed by guilt, and sets out on a reckless path that may destroy his marriage. While her mother, Marilyn is devastated, vengeful, and determined to find a responsible party, no matter what the cost. Lydia’s older brother, Nathan, is certain that the neighborhood bad boy Jack is somehow involved. But it’s the youngest of the family—Hannah—who observes far more than anyone realizes and who may be the only one who knows the truth about what happened. A novel that explores the struggle between mothers and daughters, fathers and sons, and husbands and wives, this book is best alongside a wine that will provide some levity. Produced by a father and son-in-law duo, this lightly sparkling wine is off-dry with tantalizing notes of white flowers and citrus. 

Probably Ruby by Lisa Bird-Wilson
McBride Sisters Central Coast Chardonnay 2021

Given up for adoption as an infant, Ruby is raised by a white couple who understand little of her Indigenous heritage. This is the great mystery that hovers over Ruby’s life—who her people are and how to reconcile what is missing. As the novel spans time and multiple points of view, we meet the people connected to Ruby: her birth parents and grandparents; her adoptive parents; the men and women Ruby has been romantically involved with; a beloved uncle; and Ruby’s children. Taken together, these characters form a kaleidoscope of stories, giving Ruby’s life dignity and meaning. A novel this dazzling could only be paired with the McBride Sisters Chardonnay. Defying all odds, these two sisters found each other from opposite sides of the globe. They combined their passion for winemaking to produce this white wine with stunning notes of lemon curd, ripe pear, and baking spice.

Well-Behaved Indian Women by Saumya Dave
Gratavinum Silvestris Priorat 2020

Simran Mehta has always felt harshly judged by her mother, Nandini, especially when it comes to her little “writing hobby.” But when a charismatic and highly respected journalist careens into Simran’s life, she begins to question not only her future as a psychologist, but her engagement to her high school sweetheart. Nandini Mehta has strived to create an easy life for her children in America. From dealing with her husband’s demanding family to the casual racism of her patients, everything Nandini has endured has been for her children’s sake. It isn’t until an old colleague makes her a life-changing offer that Nandini realizes she’s spent so much time focusing on being the "Perfect Indian Woman," she’s let herself slip away. Mimi Kadakia failed her daughter, Nandini, in ways she’ll never be able to fix­—or forget. But with her granddaughter, she has the chance to be supportive and offer help when it’s needed. As life begins to pull Nandini and Simran apart, Mimi is determined to be the bridge that keeps them connected, even as she carries her own secret burden. A collaboration between the producers at Pares Balta and Jordi Fernandez, this organic red blend displays mouthwatering notes of warm spice and ripe red and black fruits.