The Wine Column: Festive pairings don’t need perfection
Thanksgiving’s almost here, and thoughts of wine to go with turkey roam around our heads.
Remember, there are no rules in wine and food pairings. Your favorite wine is probably going to be the best combination for you.
There is no wine that will match all of the flavors on your Thanksgiving table, so don’t get hung up on “the perfect wine.” I also suggest not buying on the cheap – Thanksgiving comes but once a year; splurge a little.
My family enjoys at least one white and one red wine with our meal, after starting with the requisite Champagne or sparkling wine. This may be the year to be adventurous. Have your guests bring their favorite bottle and determine the group consensus.
Here are a few jewels from local wine merchants:
Rumrunner, 3131 E. First St.
• 2009 Caymus Conundrum, $17.99. Fragrant and luscious, this wine is a combination of grapes and flavors and will complement the diverse flavors on your table. It appeals to novices and connoisseurs alike.
• 2009 Eymael Monchhof Riesling, $14.99, barely sweet with mouth-watering acidity.
• 2009 Block Nine Pinot Noir Caiden’s Vineyards, $13.99, lush and soft, easy drinking quality, affordable wine from a pinot specialist.
• 2009 Altocedro Malbec La Consulta, $14.99, tons of black fruit with a potpourri of spice notes, but not too tannic.
Magee Road Liquors, 7980 N. Oracle Road
• 2009 Patricia Green Sauvignon Blanc, $19.99, refreshing with racy acidity but ending with a creamy texture.
• 2007 Bennett Family Reserve Chardonnay, $16.99, mouthwatering wine that greets turkey with a luscious kiss.
• 2005 Gordon Brothers Family Tradition Red, on sale for $29.99, a lush wine with vanilla, cherry, and cranberry essence.
• 2007 Van Duzer Pinot Noir, $30.99, clear fruit of ripe cherries, raspberry, and cranberries combines with earthy spices.
Plaza Liquors and Fine Wines, 2642 N. Campbell Ave.
• NV Santome Prosecco, $13.99, off-dry bubbles; NV Castillo Perelada Cava, $11.99, crisp with lingering finish, are both a great start.
• 2008 Angeline Chardonnay, $13.99, slightly buttery and rich, goes well with the bird.
• 2008 Chateau Goulaine Rose’ d’Ajou, $9.99, light and fruity with a twinge of sweetness, dynamite with ham.
• 2007 Elk Cove Pinot Noir, $24.99, lots of guts with wonderful cherry fruit, and a fine complement to the menu.
• 2005 Piatelli Malbec, $21.99, a special after-dinner red that offers oak and fruit “to die for.”
Cheers! Be thankful for wine, turkey, family and friends.
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- A young pinot with pop from Hirsch Vineyards
- The Wine Column: Some steps to initially assess your selection
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- Think pink: Try a glass of rosé
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