Thanksgiving is the perfect time to appreciate family, express gratitude, and indulge in a mouth-watering feast. As we gather around the table filled with delectable dishes, choosing the right wines can elevate our dining experience and complement the diverse flavors of this traditional celebration. In this article, we will explore an array of wine recommendations with our partner <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/">Grapes The Wine Company</a>. that will perfectly accompany your Thanksgiving spread, ensuring a memorable gastronomic experience for all.

&nbsp;

1. Dry Whites: Adding Freshness and Zest

When it comes to white wines, aim for dry selections with vibrant acidity to counterbalance rich and savory dishes. Here are three distinct white wine recommendations:

a) Sauvignon Blanc: With its herbaceous aroma and zesty citrus notes, Sauvignon Blanc&#39;s refreshing qualities make it an excellent choice when paired with roasted turkey or herb-infused stuffing.

<a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Honig-Sauvignon-Blanc-Napa-Valley-2022-w2830476i4">Honig - Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley 2022</a>- $19.99

Bright, inviting floral, pear and citrus aromas lead to a lively and harmonious palate. Resplendent with jasmine and citrus notes that range from grapefruit to lemongrass and kafir lime, delightfully nuanced by tropical notes, this wine delivers quintessential Honig sauvignon blanc style.&nbsp;

b) Chardonnay: Opt for unoaked or lightly oaked Chardonnays to avoid overwhelming delicate flavors. The wine&#39;s apple and pear notes offer a beautiful synergy with roasted butternut squash or creamed corn.

<a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Albert-Bichot-Macon-Villages-2021-w5059396ma">Albert Bichot - M&acirc;con-Villages 2021</a> - $18.99

Since 1350, the Bichot family has called Burgundy home. But, it was in 1831 that Bernard Bichot founded a merchant house bearing his name in Month&eacute;lie, a couple of kilometers south of Beaune. At the end of the 19th century, his grandson Albert Bichot took the family business into a new direction and created the winery, Maison Albert Bichot as we know it. The family heritage has been perpetuated from father to son since then. The family crest, consisting of a deer and antlers, has been synonymous with the winery since its inception.

Since 1996, Alb&eacute;ric Bichot has represented the 6th generation managing the winery. The winery&rsquo;s mission is to utilize the best fruit possible to create the best wine and best expression of terroir.

c) Riesling: For those who prefer a touch of sweetness, a well-balanced Riesling can harmonize with cured meats like honey-glazed ham while cutting through the richness.

<a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Peter-Lauer-Barrel-X-Alt-Scheidt-Riesling-2022-w7848119ip">Peter Lauer - Barrel X Alt Scheidt Riesling 2022</a> - $19.99

&ldquo;Barrel X&rdquo; is winemaker Florian Lauer&rsquo;s Platonic ideal of what a slightly off-dry (feinherb) Saar Riesling should be. If we were in Burgundy, this would be the equivalent of a &ldquo;Bourgogne Blanc.&rdquo; As an appellation-level wine, it is sourced from multiple vineyards in four different villages of the Saar: Ayl (Lauer&rsquo;s home village), Saarburg, Wawern and Wiltingen. Florian says, &ldquo;From Ayl and Wawern, the wine gains the fruit and power, from Saarburg the racy acidity, and from Wiltingen, the spice.&rdquo;

Regardless of what comes from where, this much is certain: dollar for dollar, I&rsquo;m not sure there is a 750ml bottle that delivers as much joy and zing. This is the gateway drug to Lauer, to the Saar, to Riesling&hellip; be careful. Very addictive.

2. Elegant Reds: Complementing Hearty Classics

Red wines often take center stage during festive meals, especially as they pair wonderfully with heartier dishes. Consider the following red wines:

a) Pinot Noir: Known for its versatility, Pinot Noir&#39;s medium body offers bright red fruit flavors that match beautifully with roasted turkey or cranberry sauce.

<a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Compton-Family-Pinot-Noir-2022-w244450821">Compton Family - Pinot Noir 2022</a> - $26.99

Enticing aromas of red cherry, red berry, and forest floor. Elegant mouth feel, with waves of dark red fruit accents and hints of cacao. Lovely lingering flavors make for a delightful mouthwatering finish.

Compton Family Description

Compton Family Wines&reg; is a family-owned winery founded in 2003 in Philomath, Oregon, by Matthew and Tabitha Compton with the ethos of producing Oregon wines made with minimal intervention that remain true to the varietal character of the grape. The Comptons practice regenerative agriculture on their homestead and in the local vineyards they manage, which includes minimal handling in the vineyard, dry farming, no tilling, cover crops, and incorporating animals for adaptive grazing. Compton Family Wines&reg; bring true Willamette Valley terroir to your table.

The winery was originally founded as Spindrift Cellars in 2004 but has since changed its name to Compton Family Cellars. The focus now is on Pinot Noir from special vineyards that Matt manages through his West Vine Farms vineyard management company. Besides a farmer, Matt is an experienced winemaker with well over twenty years of experience in the Oregon wine industry. As a result, the Pinot Noir wines have the handprint of an experienced grower and talented winemaker.

b) Zinfandel: A full-bodied and fruity red wine like Zinfandel complements robust and spicy flavors such as smoked sausages or barbecued ribs.

<a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Cline-Zinfandel-Eight-Spur-Dry-Creek-2020-w55891482o">Cline - Zinfandel Eight Spur Dry Creek 2020</a> - $23.99

The Dry Creek Zinfandel vines resemble small trees free standing, low to the ground and spur pruned to eight canes to form well-spaced branches. The resulting low hanging fruit bask in the radiant ground heat, rewarding us with intense flavors of black cherry, black currant, cinnamon and baking spice with a rich, ripe palate. Hope this spurs your senses!

c) Syrah/Shiraz: Rich and intense, Syrah or Shiraz pairs splendidly with roasted root vegetables and savory herb-infused stuffing.

<a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Alain-Graillot-Crozes-Hermitage-2020-w8297107a1">Alain Graillot - Crozes Hermitage 2020</a> - $36.99

&quot;Expressive red and dark berry, smoked meat, olive and floral qualities on the spice-accented nose. Sappy and penetrating on the palate&quot; Josh Raynolds

The late Alain Graillot is well known to wine lovers throughout the world, and was universally regarded as one of the most talented producers not only in the Rh&ocirc;ne, but in the whole of France.

It was in 1985 that the legendary Alain Graillot, who after working with the venerable Jacques Seysses at Domaine Dujac, came back to his home in Crozes-Hermitage to start his own domaine. With each passing year his devotion to the art of making hauntingly delicious Syrah from his organically farmed, stone-laden vineyards, has been rewarded with an ever growing and highly dedicated following around the world. Alain&rsquo;s sons Maxime and Antoine have been in charge since 2008, with Alain working closely alongside them. All the work is still completely the same as it ever was: hand-harvesting, organic farming, whole-cluster fermentation, and aging the wines primarily in 1-to-3 year old barrels purchased from some of the top estates in Burgundy. In great years, the domaine also makes tiny quantities of a barrel selection knows as &ldquo;La Guiraude,&rdquo; a rare and remarkably complex wine of particular distinction.

The domaine&rsquo;s status as one of the top domaines in all of France is without question and the whole lineup are must-haves for any serious Northern Rhone fan.

d) Beajoulous: Mellow, tart, light, and fruity with acidity, minerality, and gentle tannins. Its flavor includes dark red fruits like strawberries, cherries, and raspberries pairs well with turkey.

<a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Jean-Michel-Dupre-Regnie-Vignes-De-1948-2020-w0503278gh">Jean-Michel Dupre - Regnie Vignes De 1948 2020</a> - $15.99

Jean-Michel Dupre started with next to nothing: only a farm and a two hectare vineyard left by his father. When the question of succession arose, Jean-Michel could not pass on the opportunity to continue the tradition. He converted an old farm building into a winery and went in search of additional well-located plots in Beaujolais, Beaujolais Villages, Morgon, and R&eacute;gni&eacute;. What sets him apart from many other winemakers in the region is the age of his vineyard, which has vines on it that are around 100 years old. His wines have an incredible concentration as a result from smaller yields and more expressive fruit. The vines that produce this wine average over seventy years of age and are located in the sandy granitic soils of the 11 acre &quot;Tour Bardon&quot; vineyard.

3. Ros&eacute; All the Way!

Don&#39;t overlook the versatility of a well-selected ros&eacute;. Its light, refreshing profile matches perfectly with various Thanksgiving menu components:

a) Dry Ros&eacute;: Offering a balance between red and white wines, a dry ros&eacute; can cut through fatty flavors like gravy while enhancing the herbs in sage stuffing.

<a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Francois-Chidaine-Touraine-Rose-Val-De-Loire-2022-w3408549dk">Francois Chidaine - Touraine Rose Val De Loire 2022</a> - $15.99

Chidaine&rsquo;s 2022 Ros&eacute; is a blend of Grolleau and Pinot Noir. Bright and effusive, with tons of aromatic presence, the Ros&eacute; is immediately alluring. The interplay of aromatics, bright minerals and layered fruit makes for a delicious and beguiling Ros&eacute; that is absolutely delicious. - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

b) Sparkling Ros&eacute;: For those seeking a festive touch, sparkling ros&eacute; will elevate your Thanksgiving toast as its effervescence provides a delightful contrast to rich dishes or creamy mashed potatoes.

<a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Bisol-Jeio-Prosecco-Rose-Brut-2020-w5345503l0">Bisol - Jeio Prosecco Rose Brut 2020</a>&nbsp; -$14.99

Delicate rose color with fine and persistent perlage. Elegant, complex bouquet on the nose with scents of rose, hints of fresh fruits and lychees. The sip is full, sapid, harmonious, with a well-balanced acidity.

4. Sweet Endings: Dessert Wine Pairings

As our Thanksgiving meal concludes, dessert becomes the star of the show. Pairing desserts with carefully chosen sweet wines enhances their flavors:

a) Late Harvest Riesling: A luscious late-harvest Riesling boasts concentrated fruitiness and honeyed richness that pairs harmoniously with apple pie or caramelized pumpkin desserts.

<a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/JJ-Prum-Graacher-Himmelreich-Riesling-Auslese-GKA-2018-w6515356j4">J.J. Prum - Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Auslese GKA 2018 (375ml)</a> - $41.99

The 2018er Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Auslese GK was made from shrivelled rather than botrytized fruit, and was fermented down to noble-sweet levels of residual sugar. It offers a ripe but still rather backward nose made of honeyed fig, earthy spices, almond paste, and smoky elements. The wine proves gorgeously juicy and fruity on the still rather sweet palate, and leaves a superbly multi-layered feel of almond paste, fig, lemongrass, and spices. A touch of zest comes through in the after-taste and adds to the complex and layered sensation. This remarkably elegant wine only needs patience to absorb its sweetness and reveal its finesse. 2033-2058

94 - Mosel Fine Wine

b) Port: With its rich texture and intense flavors, port wine creates magical pairings with dark chocolate desserts, fruit tarts, or nutty pies on your Thanksgiving table.

<a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Warre-s-Vintage-Port-2000-w1709424vz">Warre&#39;s - Vintage Port 2000</a> - $71.99

This is a classic Cima Corgo wine based on old-vine mixed plantings on either side of the Douro, Cavadinha (north of Pinhao) and Bom Retiro (across the river to the south). The vinhas velhas at these quintas make up 80 percent of the blend, with contributions from tourigas francesa and nacional. This presents the ripe 2000 vingage in luscious and supple roundness, the tannins completely integrated into the fruit, taking the wine in a savory direction of mountain herbs and cool schist. The wine shows Warre&#39;s gentle power, a vintage at its prime, ready to enjoy with after-dinner conversation, it should hold well over the next five to ten years.

5. Considerations for Non-Alcoholic Options

While wine is a popular choice during this festive occasion, it&#39;s essential to cater to non-drinkers or those who prefer non-alcoholic alternatives:

a) Sparkling Water: Chilled sparkling water infused with fresh fruits or herbs offers a sophisticated and refreshing option that complements any dish without overpowering flavors.

b) Mocktails: Get creative with festive mocktails by combining fruity juices, tonic water, ginger ale, and various herbs - an intriguing alternative for both adults and children alike.

As you plan your Thanksgiving feast this year, remember that choosing the right wine can transform an already memorable meal into an extraordinary one. Whether you opt for a dry white to refresh your palate, an elegant red to complement the heartier entrees, or a sweet wine to conclude the evening on a high note, there are numerous options available to suit every taste and dish. Take this opportunity to explore and experiment with new pairings, creating a Thanksgiving experience that will be remembered for years

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to appreciate family, express gratitude, and indulge in a mouth-watering feast. As we gather around the table filled with delectable dishes, choosing the right wines can elevate our dining experience and complement the diverse flavors of this traditional celebration. In this article, we will explore an array of wine recommendations with our partner Grapes The Wine Company. that will perfectly accompany your Thanksgiving spread, ensuring a memorable gastronomic experience for all.

Wine Recommendations for a Memorable Thanksgiving Dinner

Syrah and Shiraz. Two different names for the same grape variety, but also the name of two different styles of wine. Originally from France but spread around the world today, it has found its own identity in regions far away from the original origin.

The black grape Syrah comes from the French Rhône valley and it’s still very much planted there. Here, it’s the only variety used in Hermitage and Cornas, and also used in blends with other local grapes in areas like Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Côtes du Rhône to mention a few. The grape name won’t appear on the label though since in France, and in Europe in general, the origin is of more importance than the grape variety.

Decoding the wine label: Syrah or Shiraz?

Champagne, the obvious choice for celebrations or holidays in any form for many wine drinkers. Since it’s a fantastic, artisan beverage, why change the tradition? With the holidays coming up, choose to pour something extra special this year – the millésime style champagne.

Decoding the wine label: Millésime

Bordeaux is a name synonymous with some of the world's most prestigious red wines, but its white wines, particularly Bordeaux Blanc, often fly under the radar. While the reds of this region have garnered international fame, Bordeaux Blanc wines, crafted primarily from Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle grapes, are some of the wine world's best-kept secrets. These wines offer an elegant balance of freshness, complexity, and aging potential that can rival the finest whites from anywhere in the world.

Bordeaux Blanc: An Underappreciated Gem of the Wine World

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, our palates yearn for refreshing beverages that embody the essence of summer. For those new to the world of wine, choosing between cider, orange wine, and rosé can be a delightful journey. Each offers unique flavors and experiences perfect for warm weather sipping. In this article, we’ll explore three standout choices: Wolffer Dry Cider No. 139, Cune Viña Rosado 2023, and Spiritus Terrae Malvasia Orange 2021.

Savoring Summer: The Best Rosé Drink Choices from Cider-Orange-Rosé for Beginners

Navigating the wine list at a restaurant can be a daunting task, as many wine lovers have experienced. In our previous article on the tension of ordering wine at restaurants, we discussed this issue and shared some tips to help ease the process. However, one CorkRules user has recently encountered a situation that highlights just how challenging it can be.

The Switch? – #restaurantfail #winelistfail

Memorial Day weekend signals the official kick-off to summer, and what better way to celebrate than a backyard barbecue with friends and family? But for the wine lovers out there, the usual pairing of burgers and beer can feel a little, well, uninspired.

Fear not, fellow geeks! Let's ditch the predictable and dive into three exciting wine options that will have you sipping and savoring alongside the sizzling BBQ.

Memorial Day BBQ Bash: 3 Wines to Geek Out Over (While Grilling)

What is the right price for a bottle of wine at a restaurant? Wine pricing at restaurants is a hot topic of late but has many complexities. Let's dig into it and better understand the issues and some potential solutions.

The tension around wine pricing at restaurants?

Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a name that resonates with prestige and quality in the world of wine. This illustrious appellation is steeped in history dating back centuries and has been producing some of France's most celebrated wines for generations.



Nestled within the southern region of Rhône Valley, France lies Châteauneuf-du-Pape - translated as "the Pope's new castle". The area earned its moniker during the 14th century when it served as a summer residence for Popes who sought refuge from political turmoil in Rome.

The Rich History of Châteauneuf-du-Pape highlighting some great value wines

In the world of wine and food, we often find ourselves ensnared by ratings, stars, points – an endless parade of numbers that dictate our choices. We chase after high-rated wines or Michelin-starred restaurants with fervor only to be met with experiences that seldom live up to their lofty reputations. But amidst this whirlwind pursuit for perfection lies a simple truth - what truly makes wine and food special are not scores or accolades but pure experiences crafted from love.

The Serendipity of Experiences in Wine and Food

Michaela Quinlan

Le Penguin

Le Penguin

RT: Hello and welcome to CorkRules!&nbsp;

A podcast where, in each episode, we will review a wine list from your favorite restaurants. I&rsquo;m your host Robert Tas along with Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier.

Hello Michaela,&nbsp;it&rsquo;s great to be back together for another episode.

MQ: Hi Robert!

RT: Before we jump in, let&rsquo;s talk about CorkRules.

We created CorkRules to demystify wine lists because we know from experience, that sometimes when we get that list handed to us, well&hellip; it can be intimidating, and even a little daunting.

Our aim is to help prepare you to navigate that list, find those hidden gems, or value wines or that special bottle that will take your dining experience over the top.

RT:&nbsp;So, sit back and listen as we review your favorite wine list.

RT: Today we are talking about Le Penguin. Located in Greenwich, CT, this farm-to-table French Bistro features a colorful and comfortable atmosphere specializing in fish, chicken, and beef dishes.

Michaela, I can&rsquo;t wait to hear what do you think of their wine list.

MQ: There are so many favorite French selections to feature today for all palates.

RT: That&rsquo;s really great, as you looked at the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: Since Le Penguin offers lunch and Brunch, what better way to begin our selections than with the Baron de Scilla Brut Rose Sparkling from Provence, France. This Grenache sparkler features aromas and flavors of strawberries, ripe red cherries, and watermelon. A perfect way to begin your dining experience.

RT: That is a great place to start. Did you find any others that caught your eye right away?

MQ: Absolutely, one to consider would be the Caillou Bourgogne Blanc 2019 from Burgundy, France. This unoaked chardonnay exhibits aromas and flavors of pear and green apple, notes of citrus, with a mineral finish. A perfect complement to cheeses, salmon, and rich sauces.

RT: So, Michaela, their list seems to have lots of range but was there anything that you would say is a &ldquo;must-try&rdquo;?

MQ: A must-try comes from one of my favorite regions, Bandol, located within Provence. Known for its highly rated rose, Bandol also releases highly allocated red wines. One to consider would be the 2016 Domaine de l&rsquo;Olivette, which consists of 90% mourvedre and 10% grenache. This red wine features aromas and flavors of ripe blackberries and spice, with notes of licorice and smoke on the finish. A wonderful pairing for cheese and proteins.

RT: These are some great calls.

So, you know I&rsquo;m getting thirsty and will need to order a bottle with my dinner, where would you guide us?

MQ: A wonderfully aromatic consideration would be the 2018 Ladoucette Pouilly Fume from Loire, France. Pouilly Fume is an appellation in Loire featuring sauvignon blanc that rivals Sancerre, not to be confused with Pouilly Fuisse which is &nbsp;chardonnay. This sauvignon blanc features aromas and flavors of citrus, lime zest, grapefruit, and bright acidity with a mineral finish. This would be a wonderful companion to shellfish, soft cheeses, and spicy dishes.

RT: Ooh, Terrific.

Michaela, speaking of price, sometimes people have a budget in mind.&nbsp; any other great value wines you&rsquo;d point us to?&nbsp;

MQ: You know this is my favorite category to discuss, so of course I have a selection for our white and red wine drinkers. To begin, I would consider the 2016 Laurent Craft Vouvray from the Loire Valley. The primary white grape in Vouvray is Chenin Blanc. This is a perfect grape to pair with spicy food due to its bright acidity, minerality, and hint of dried apricot on the finish.

RT: That sounds great. How about that red selection?

MQ: I can never pass a Gigondas on a wine list. The neighbor to Chateauneuf du Pape, all the quality at a fraction of the price, I would consider the 2017 L&rsquo;Hallali Grand Reserve Gigondas. This full-bodied Grenache/Syrah blend features aromas and flavors of ripe red cherries, blueberries, ripe blackberries, with notes of cocoa, leather, and smoke on the finish.&nbsp; A perfect pairing for richly sauced dishes and proteins.

RT: Now Michaela, what if I have a big client dinner or special occasion where I want to take it up a notch?

MQ: We love to discuss special occasion wines, as well as special occasion restaurants. However, there is great sentimentality when it comes to wine. Your special occasion wine doesn&rsquo;t have to be the most expensive, it can be a particular vintage or location you have visited. I find the most special bottles are those with which you can share a story.

With that said, I would consider the 2015 Le Hautes du Tertre from Margaux. This highly rated, Bordeaux classic, is always a winner. The combination of ripe raspberries, cassis, fig, smoke, and nutmeg certainly make this wine one for any special occasion.

RT: Michaela, thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate Le Penguin&rsquo;s wine list. I can&rsquo;t wait to go try them myself.&nbsp;

To our audience, thank you all for joining us here on CorkRules.

If you would like us to review one of your favorite restaurants, please send us email to: <a href="mailto:Info@corkrules.Com">Info@CorkRules.Com</a> or visit our web website where we have a request form available and we will do our best to get it in the queue as quickly as possible.

We are looking forward to being with you on another CorkRules episode soon. In the meantime, please check out our website for other episodes of your favorite restaurant wine lists.&nbsp;

And finally, drink what you love and please make sure you drink responsibly.

Thank you.

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End

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BRAT

Bocca di Lupe

Gap Weekend: A Film Shoot in Wine Country

Alba Restaurant

Alba

10 Greek Street

L'Auberge Chez Francois

Andrew Edmunds

Salt Seafood and Oyster Bar

Matteos Ristorante Italiano

Matteo's

Domaine Faiveley is one of the largest and most respected wine producers in Burgundy, with a history dating back to 1825. They are known for producing high-quality wines that represent the terroir of the region.

A lantern-lit indoor garden & live jazz in the adjoining bar complement light Italian fare.

GlenArbor

homepage

CorkRules application allows you to discover wines at your favorite restaurants, learn with friends and be confident with price transparency. Order wine with confidence at restaurants and retailers. Get personalized recommendations. #DrinkWhatYouLove

MEET OUR SOMMELIER

Fernando
Silva

Related Episodes

#202

GlenArbor

About Fernando

Want to be a featured Sommelier?

MEET OUR SOMMELIER

Fernando Silva

Related Episodes

#202

GlenArbor

About Fernando

Want to be a featured Sommelier?

Fernando
Silva