This past week I ran a column in the Nashua Telegraph (Thanksgiving recommendations from the experts) that paired terrific Thanksgiving inspired recipes with their perfect wine pairings. The contributions came from a panel of truly creative and talented chefs, restaurant owners, a sommelier and even a trailblazing winemaker.
The final installment of my Thanksgiving recommendations is straight forward. I wish to simply put forth a list of 7 red wines and 7 white wines that can't miss when paired with traditional Thanksgiving fare. The price range for these wines varies greatly, however, I have gone through great lengths to find values at every price level. The way I look at it, if you are having a special meal, offer special wines to accompany it!
As I mentioned in the article, there are a few simple rules to remember when pairing food and wine:
• Choose a wine you enjoy.
• It is generally safe to pair hearty dishes with hearty wines and conversely lighter dishes with lighter wines.
• Pay attention to the accompaniments of the dish. Some wines may go well with turkey and mashed potatoes, but not the brussels sprouts or horseradish being served with them.
• Don’t stress about it; wine is meant to elevate, not tear down. You are with loved ones who will likely appreciate your effort.
With that being said, here are the wines. They have been selected with equal parts quality and food-friendliness taken into account. Also, all of these wines are well stocked at the NH Liquor Store off Exit 6 behind the Nashua Mall, as well as many other locations.
The Whites (pictured above)- 2008 Kris, Pinot Grigio, Delle Venezie, Italy - $11.99 (reg. $14.99)
- 2007 Chateau Ste. Michelle Eroica, Riesling, Columbia Valley, Washington - $16.99 (reg. $20.99)**
- 2007 Benton Lane, Pinot Gris, Willamette Valley, Oregon - $18.99
- 2008 Cloudy Bay, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand - $21.49**
- 2007 Joseph Drouhin, Chablis, Beaune, France - $21.99 (reg. $23.99)
- 2006 Mer Soleil, Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands, California - $36.99
- NV Moët et Chandon Nectar Imperial, Champagne, Epernay, France - $38.99
The Reds (pictured above)- 2007 Chateau Pesquie Terrasses, Rhone Blend, Cotes du Ventoux, France - $10.99 (reg. $12.99)
- 2008 Chalone, Pinot Noir, Monterey, California - $12.99 (reg. $15.99)
- 2005 Castano Solanera, Mourvèdre and Cabernet Sauvignon, Yecla, Spain - $13.99
- 2004 Antinori Villa Toscana, Cabernet Blend, Tuscany, Italy - $21.99
- 2008 Seghesio, Zinfandel, Sonoma, California - $22.99**
- 2007 Benton Lane, Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon - $25.99
- 2007 Domaine Drouhin, Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon - $43.99**
I know that it is cliche to say "life is too short to drink bad wine", but it is true. There are a tremendous amount of wines out there that are crafted by winemakers whose sole intention is to share their artistry with you. The wines above are a good introduction to food-friendly wines that are crafted with love. This Thanksgiving I ask you to invite them into your homes to help enhance your memorable Thanksgiving dinners!** indicates my top 2 picks per category
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Great post! Perfect selections, I wish I could say I've tried them all. I also love the Seghesio and the Riesling you picked!
ReplyDeleteAre you on Twitter? I'm not seeting it on the links to the right.
Thank you for the kind words.
ReplyDeleteThere are so many wines out there that it is hard to try all, but hopefully a few of these will provide you with some enjoyable experiences.
Look for SenelWine on Twitter.
Seghesio make a very tasty, and affordable, everyday Zin.
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