Uncork The Thanksgiving Wines

KENWOOD, Calif., Nov. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thanksgiving is almost upon us, which means now is the time to select wines for the big feast. Fortunately, choosing wines that pair deliciously with Thanksgiving dinner can be quick and easy; all you need do is let your dinner and your preferences be your guide.

The traditional Thanksgiving dinner encompasses a range of flavors: rich, herbal, sweet and creamy. Wines that handle such diversity best are those that complement or accentuate, but don't overpower. The key is moderation; less – in terms of power, alcohol, tannin and oak – is actually more in achieving scrumptious Thanksgiving wine matches. And because Thanksgiving is a truly American holiday, it deserves to be celebrated with American wines.

Those who love white wines have a few choices when it comes to making a stellar Thanksgiving wine match. One is a vibrant Chardonnay with just a hint of oak character that echoes the richness of Thanksgiving dishes, such as the 2012 Kenwood Vineyards Sonoma County Chardonnay. Another is a medium-bodied, unoaked Sauvignon Blanc with fruit and herb character to enhance the foods' flavors. The 2012 Kenwood Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc captures this style perfectly, as do other unoaked Sauvignon Blancs from Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties. The last is a fresh, fruity off-dry Pinot Gris, Riesling or Gewurztraminer that lets the food shine and refreshes the palate. The hard-to-find 2012 Kenwood Vineyards Russian River Valley Pinot Gris is one option, but there are plenty more from cool vineyard regions across the United States.

Red wines lovers will find their best Thanksgiving matches among the light, fruit-forward and smooth red wine varieties. Pinot Noir works particularly well, especially those from the coolest appellations, like the 2011 Kenwood Vineyards Russian River Valley Pinot Noir.  For those who prefer a bit more richness, an elegant Merlot such as the 2010 Kenwood Vineyards Sonoma County Merlot is a fine choice.

Here are three more thoughts regarding Thanksgiving wines. Thanksgiving is a celebration and an American sparkler – like Korbel California Brut Champagne – served as an aperitif is a great way to kick off the celebration. Also, offering both a white and a red wine with Thanksgiving dinner is the surest way to please everyone at the table. Lastly, if your Thanksgiving dinner main course is something other than turkey, select a wine that pairs well with that main course, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon with roast leg of lamb or an off-dry rose with glazed ham. All are great choices that are sure to enhance the holiday meal. 

Celebrate responsibly.

SOURCE Kenwood Vineyards