Even if you’re all set to bake the bird and everybody’s favorite side dishes for Thursday’s Thanksgiving feasts, be sure to remember one of the most important accompaniments to the table working in perfect gastronomy pleasure — the wine.
THE CONGENIAL WINE
To join the turkey at the table you can never go wrong with pinot noir for its ability to pair well with many flavors. The lighter-bodied red wine has a similar taste and character to many white wines — a bonus for pleasing your red and white wine drinkers. Be sure to serve slightly chilled, not room temperature.
THE VALUE
- 2009 Mark West Pinot Noir, California (about $14 retail)
THE SPLURGE
- 2010 Anne Amie Cuvee A Pinot Noir, Oregon (about $28 retail)
THE UNIQUE WINE
Gewurztraminer’s lightbodied texture and spicy taste is a delightful partner for the range of flavors on any buffet table. A tried and true expression of this grape is produced in France’s Alsace region, with an aromatic, clean, light-bodied style.
THE VALUE
- 2010 Chateau Ste. Michelle Gewurztraminer, Washington (about $15 retail)
THE SPLURGE
- 2009 Hugel Gewurztraminer, France (about $26 retail)
THE SAFE WINE
There are many wines that complement the clashing of food flavors, weights and textures but Rieslings are possibly the wine world’s best option for versatility. Most Thanksgiving menus are a pairing of mishmash flavors, and a dry or off-dry style will work best.
THE VALUE
- 2011 Clean Slate Riesling, Germany (about $13 retail)
THE SPLURGE
- 2011 Anne Amie Riesling, Oregon (about $22 retail)
THE ULTIMATE WINE
If it ever was the time to dust off the cobwebs and head to your cellar door it’s now. If you have an aging bottle of pinot noir tucked away and have been saving it for a well-deserved moment, this is as ideal a time as any. The aging pinot noir complements the day’s menus as it takes on many earthy flavors and complexities. Burgundy brings incredible depth of character like no other wine in the world.
If your cellar is not home to aged Burgundy there are many options at your local wine shop for impressive bottles well worth the price.
THE VALUE
- 2010 Louis Latour Bourgogne Pinot Noir, France (about $19 retail)
THE SPLURGE
- 2009 LeRoy Bourgogne Rouge, France (about $68 retail)