Give Thanks to America’s Diversity with Wine

Just because Thanksgiving is an American holiday doesn’t mean that you can’t serve wines from other countries. Many of those who have made the United States their home have contributed to its greatness.  They are an important element of the culture I love. And so are many of their wines.  Distinctive wines and dishes that reflect a variety of ethnicities certainly have a place at any table no matter what the occasion.

Following are reviews of several wines sent to me as samples along with suggested food pairings for the Thanksgiving celebration.  Whether your guest list includes large groups of friends or family or you plan to have a quiet gathering of two or three, any of these wines will be sure to satisfy and delight.  Remember to count your blessings and give thanks for the special people in your life and the diversity of our country.  Then pour a glass of a wine you love and enjoy.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

White Wines

Ziobaffa Pinot Grigio 2014 – From the rolling Tuscan hills of Italy, Ziobaffa Pinot Grigio is a collaboration between filmmaker Jason Baffa and “friend, surfer, winemaker, and art patron”, Piergiorgio Castellani. Using estate harvested grapes that are organically grown with sustainable techniques, this wine reflects its Tuscan roots with aromas of pear, hint of honey, tropical fruit, and minerality. Balanced elements of rich fruit and snappy acidity were clean and refreshing; I found a depth in this wine that is not always detected in a Pinot Grigio that costs only $17.  Serve the Ziobaffa Pinot Grigio with lighter dishes such as fish or shellfish, salad with fresh, crispy vegetables, pasta with cream sauce, or as an aperitif when your guests arrive.

Gran Reserva Concha Y Toro Sauvignon Blanc 2014 – I’m always enamored with Concha Y Toro’s wine offerings – this time it’s a Sauvignon Blanc from their Riverbank Series, a portfolio of single vineyard wines from fruit grown close to one of Chile’s major rivers.  The south bank of the Rapel River in the Colchagua Valley with its semi-arid coastal climate is the origin of this lovely wine that is sure to please your Thanksgiving guests.  Gentle aromas of grapefruit, citrus, light herbs, and white flowers were enticing and noted on the palate as well.  Boasting lip smacking acidity, burst of minerality, lush mouthfeel, and a long refreshing finish, the Sauvignon Blanc will pair with soft cheeses, savory vegetarian dishes, roasted turkey, and grilled seafood.  Cost is $17.

Aa Assyrtiko 2014 – This dry, crisp white wine is a blend of 75% Assyrtiko and 25% Athini, two ancient varieties grown in vineyards that are over 3000 years old on the stunningly beautiful Greek island of Santorini. Shimmering gold in the glass, I found aromas of lemon, stone fruit, and bracing salinity. On the palate, mouthwatering acidity, a chalky mouthfeel with volcanic minerality, florals, and tart, juicy citrus notes led to a long, creamy finish.  You’ll enjoy this wine with strawberry feta salad, fresh cucumber with feta cheese and mint or steamed mussels. You may not be spending Thanksgiving in Greece, but with this sunny and bright wine, you don’t have to. Cost is around $20.

Red Wines

Herdade do Esporao Monte Velho 2014 – The Herdade do Esparao estate can be found in the heart of Alentejo in Portugal.  As one of the leading privately held Portuguese producers of wines and olive oils, Esporao S.A. produces the country’s best selling wine brand, Monte Velho. The 2014 is a blend of Aragones, Trincadeira, Touriga Nacional, and Syrah…some of these grapes may be new to you! After aerating, aromas of bright cherries, oak, and vanilla paved the way to notes of red fruit, blackberries, touch of pepper and spice on the palate. Structured tannins, medium acidity, and fruit were balanced in this young wine that will complement charcuterie, red meats, and saucy side dishes.  Cost is $10.

MandraRossa Nero D’Avola D.O.C. Sicilia 2014 – Wines from Sicily continue to impress my palate (just look for the Sicilia D.O.C. label and you’ll know what I mean…) and this wine is yet another example.  This unique red wine bursts with aromas of delicate cherries, raspberries, vanilla spice, and smoke. Peppery notes combined with earth, more smoke, licorice, and rich red fruit were balanced with medium tannins and food friendly acidity. The long finish was more than satisfying.  You may want to enjoy this estate bottled Nero D’Avola with a vegetable lasagna as a side dish, roasted or grilled red or white meat, or, if you are getting creative, a rabbit stew. Cost is around $10.

Cruz de Piedra Seleccion Especial 2013 – A glass of easy drinking Garnacha will pair with just about anything on your table.  This choice from Spain will not disappoint.  Intense aromatics of spice, red jammy fruits, and minerality were easy on the nose and I looked forward to that first sip. Sure enough, more rich red fruit and spice, hints of balsamic and eucalyptus, integrated tannins and acidity helped create a truly balanced wine that will stand up to a cheese platter (don’t forget the El Chamizo or Manchego), Cornish hens, or traditional Thanksgiving turkey. Cost is $20.

Cheers! ~ Cindy