During a recent appearance on an Austin TV show, I commented that wine is not the star of the Thanksgiving meal—it’s the food. The show’s co-host looked at me as though I’d lost my mind! Obviously, he, too, is a kindred wine spirit. 🙂
Truly, the food is the real star, so you want your wine to blend in and compliment not dominate the feast.
Eppa Sangria [right] is a great way to shake things up this season. It comes in white and red – is organic, with TWICE the amount of antioxidants as regular wine. Eppa’s low alcohol also makes it a plus for holiday entertaining.
Probably the biggest crowd pleaser at Thanksgiving and one of the most versatile food wines is Pinot Noir. The varietal pairs nicely with turkey, ham and even beef. One of my go to sommelier friends at H-E-B has a few recommendations here… some wonderful pinots like the Siduri or Cherry Tart by Cherry Pie for under $25.
If you’re wanting to spend quite a bit less and offer a fun pairing that will create some conversation, check out the The Bodegas Castaño Monastrell [left] available at most H-E-B’s. The Spanish varietal has some lovely blueberry and raspberry flavors along with a spicy finish. Only $10 a bottle. If your heart is set on a pinot noir, then by all means try the Frontera Pinot Noir from Chile—also at H-E-B and also about $10.
For white wine fans, chardonnays will be on many tables. That’s an easy and good solution for your holiday meal. But, a more mischievous choice that’s sure to marvel is Gewurztraminer. One I like is the Trimbach 2011 Gewurztraminer, a dry wine that is both fruity and spicy with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg…a crowd pleaser.
Champagne lovers, why not start and end the meal with your favorite bubbly. Sparklings truly are a perfect pairing with almost any food. Plus, they elevate any occasion.
Some of my go to faves include the Domaine Carneros sparklings, founded by the famed Tattinger Champagne family of France but produced in California. Check out their 2010 Estate Brut Cuvee [right] and the 2011 Brut Rosé. Both are about $30 a bottle.
And Perhaps a Beer…
The Chimay Blue Cap was first brewed as a holiday beer, but was so well received that it quickly became a coveted, year-round commodity. Even better news is its ability to pair with a wide range of fare, from cheese to cheesecake. It’s dark – and positively delightful!
Bottom-line—don’t stress about your wine. Any of the choices above would be a wonderful compliment to your fabulous feast!
Happy Turkey Day 🙂
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Susan says
We picked up a bottle of wine called Josh and will be enjoying it with our Thanksgiving Day meal.
I saw you on tv this week and was glad to see that the wine we chose came recommended by you!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
Tanji says
Thank you so much Susan! Happy Thanksgiving:)