Almost everyone agrees that a delicious Pinot Noir is a go-to wine to complement the variety of dishes on the Thanksgiving table. With a bounty of meats, vegetables, sauces, and salads creating a taste sensation on the palate, a light to medium-bodied Pinot Noir is always a safe bet to pour. Its elegant profile exuding juicy red and black fruits woven with bright acidity and gentle tannins make this wine a favorite with guests who crave turkey and all the trimmings.
But there are other distinctive wines that need a prominent place at the table, too. Interesting wines that surprise (with an ah-ha!) or lend something special to a time-honored (or a non-traditional) feast might be a highlight of the day.
As you know, I taste plenty of wine. After reviewing my tasting notes, I found six selections (all sent to me as samples) that will satisfy the palates of your favorite wine lover without compromising that of the wine novice. Some are what you would expect (yes, I’ve added a Pinot Noir from one of my favorite producers and a Chardonnay that you’ll love), but others may be new to you. Whichever wines you choose to share, each guest will leave satisfied and inspired as they continue to give thanks for a memorable gathering of friends, family, food, and wine.
Anna Codorniu Blanc de Blancs – When I was in Spain, beautiful bottles of Anna Codorniu were readily available…this cava was flowing in everyone’s glass. Upon my return home, I opened a chilled bottle of my sample of Blanc de Blancs Brut Reserva, a brilliant blend of Chardonnay, Parelleda, Xarel-lo, and Macabeu from the D.O. Cava region in Lleida. Persistent bubbles tickled my nose and notes of citrus, tropical fruit, and freshly baked brioche were delightful on the palate. With a creamy mouthfeel and lingering finish, your Thanksgiving guests will love a glass of the Anna Codorniu Blanc de Blancs as soon as they arrive. However, you may want to have a few more bottles handy – I guarantee that there will be those who will want to enjoy more bubbles throughout dinner and dessert! Cost is $15.
Peter Zemmer Pinot Grigio 2015 – From the Alto Adige region of Italy, this cool climate Pinot Grigio shimmered a sultry pale gold in the glass and aromas of pear, stone fruit, and bright florals greeted my nose. One of the many reasons I loved this choice was its depth and full body on the palate accompanied by lively acidity, crisp green apple, juicy pear flavors, minerality, spices, and a broad finish. Pinot Grigio lovers will savor each sip especially with salads, cheeses, and the light meat from Nana’s turkey. Cost is $16.
Gloria Ferrer Chardonnay 2014 – Estate grown Chardonnay grapes from Carneros will satisfy any white wine lover at the table. With just a hint of minerality, I found fresh aromas of succulent pear and rich citrus that tempted me to take that first sip. Crisp apples, melon, tropical fruits such as lemon, lime, and pineapple, herbs, and subtle notes of oak (the Chardonnay was aged for seven months in French oak) were balanced with mouthwatering acidity and a lingering, refreshing finish. Complement lobster dipped in butter or a delectable salad that includes goat cheese, walnuts, a few dried cranberries, and greens. Cost is $25.
Domaine Sainte-Eugenie 2015 Corbieres – From the Languedoc region of France, pour this brilliant rose wine of Cinsault, Grenache Noir, and Syrah to liven up the feast. Fresh aromas of strawberries, red flowers, and a touch of lemon led to elements of raspberries, strawberries, ripe cherries, spice, and a dab of salinity with lip-smacking acidity; its finish was lingering, exhilarating, and tangy with a touch of spice. Your herb roasted potatoes or shellfish entrée promise to be even more delightful with this expressive wine. Remember to serve the wine chilled (not cold) in order to maintain its delicate fragrance. Cost is $11.
Durant Vineyards 2015 Ava Lucia Rose of Pinot Noir – Considered a bow to Thanksgiving (for me, at least!), Durant Vineyards from the Dundee Hills wine region Oregon has produced a beautiful rose of 100% Pinot Noir. Aged in stainless steel, I loved the gorgeous colored sunset pink in the glass. Crisp, tart, and ever so refreshing, I found bright strawberries, roses, and a bouquet of red flowers on the nose. Boasting juicy red fruits, spice, and vibrant acidity on the palate, this balanced rose will complement grilled vegetables, roasted salmon, and a few slices of that turkey leg! Cost is $25.
Van Duzer Westside Blocks 2013 Pinot Noir – Drum roll, please…you’ll appreciate each sip of this Pinot Noir from
Van Duzer Vineyards located in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Tickling the nose were intense aromas of vanilla spice, and bright, succulent cherries. Mesmerizing notes of cloves, cinnamon, black tea, vanilla, raspberries, and black cherries were subtle, but broad. Jazzy acidity and strong tannins helped create a Pinot Noir oozing with structure and balance. This choice will complement your perfectly prepared turkey and stuffing, Mom’s favorite broccoli and cheese casserole, and Aunt Dorothy’s signature sweet potatoes. Cost is $60.
Rombauer Carneros Merlot 2013 – Merlot is alive and well and this wine from Rombauer has a rightful, if not prominent, place at the table. You’ll give thanks for aromas of ripe plums, spice, dark black fruit, mint, and violets…as I did in this elegant, medium-bodied selection of 88% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Sauvignon that was aged for 17 months in oak. On the palate, a rich mouthfeel replete with velvet tannins and bright acidity offered elements of succulent cherries and juicy plums leading to a persistent finish. You may want to enjoy several glasses of the Rombauer Merlot with homemade macaroni and cheese, the savory beef dish always offered at the Thanksgiving table, or an entire plate of your favorites! Cost is $35.
Give thanks! ~ Cindy
