Every great meal needs a great wine to complement it. And with Thanksgiving fast approaching, there’s no time like the present to start planning! Our friends at Épernay Wine & Spirits gave us their top five selections to make sure your festive feast features the perfect pair.
Chateau Pradeaux Rosé, Bandol 2014
Rosé? For Thanksgiving? We say, “yes way, rosé!” This particular pink varietal is more round and rich in flavor than those you typically find from Côtes de Provence, making it the ideal fall rosé. Comprised of almost all Mourvèdre grapes, this wine is considered a “gastronomic wine”… perfect for pairing with your Thanksgiving hors d’oeuvres.
Wind Gap Trousseau Gris, Russian River Valley 2014
Turkey wine should be exactly what turkey is to the meat category… not too heavy and not too light! Similarly, this wine is not too acidic and not too sweet. But don’t be fooled by it’s light appearance — it has enough flavor and character to stand up to all the side dishes that compliment a Thanksgiving feast. This is the perfect selection for those white wine lovers in the family.
Broc Cellars Carignan, Alexander Valley 2013
Carignan, a red French/Spanish grape variety, is a quintessential Thanksgiving wine as it is not as light, fruity, or earthy as a Pinot Noir, but not as heavy or tannic as a Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon. We’ll go ahead and call this a “middle of the road” wine that offers some structure and complexity, while not being overpowering. Just what you need when settling in for a long meal comprised of many flavors!
Quivira Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley/Sonoma County 2012
Looking for a sustainably farmed wine to pair with your locavore Thanksgiving meal? This one’s for you! Quivira Vineyards uses biodynamic farming methods to produce artisanal wines that are as delicious as they are balanced and self-sustaining. This particular Zin boasts hints of black pepper and wild berries that make it spicy, yet not too heavy on the palate.
Ceja Vino de Casa, Napa Valley 2010
Love the pedigree you find in a wine from Napa Valley but don’t want a Cabernet Sauvignon to pair with your bird? This creative blend of Pinot Noir and Syrah is not only appealing to the palate for it’s combination of mixed berry fruits, but it’s easy on the wallet as well! Fun fact: Ceja Vineyards is run by the first ever Mexican-American woman to be elected president of a winery.
