More Thanksgiving Wines

Chef Dave Schy’s savory and delectable dishes rocked the crowd at our November food and wine dinner this past Sunday at Cooking with Class. The energy buzzed around the demonstration kitchen as guests kept Chef and I busy tossing around Thanksgiving tips, ideas and stories.

The wine picks for our holiday-themed dishes were Secateurs 2012 Chenin Blanc from South Africa, Commanderie de la Bargemone 2012 Rosé from Aix-en-Provence, California’s Block Nine 2012 Pinot Noir and Torbreck 2011 Cuvée Juveniles from Australia’s Barossa Valley, a Grenache-Shiraz-Mataro blend.

Even though the food pairings showcased the versatility of these four wines for turkey day, we’re betting some guests will still be tempted to open an oaky Chardonnay or big Cab tomorrow. Resist! Stash them away for next month’s big holiday dinner, where those wines will match up beautifully with rib roasts and sing with other wintry foods.

Since we’ll all be eating leftovers the rest of the week, consider a few more Thanksgiving wine tips as opportunities to try something a little different.

Lambrusco

A slightly sweet and fizzy red from Emilia-Romagna, Italy that bubbles with holiday cheer. It’s easy on the wallet and sure to please. Look for “Grasparossa di Castelvetro” on the label for a sure bet.

Riesling

A no-brainer white that can tie together the sweetness and spice of holiday dishes. Find great choices at 3rd Corner Wine Shop and Bistro or pick up Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Kung Fu Girl Riesling for just under $10 at Dan’s Wine Shop.

Beaujolais

Low in tannin and big on fruit, this French red pairs beautifully with turkey and fixin’s. Find nice selections at Dan’s Wine Shop and LA Wine Company in Palm Desert.

Norton

For a taste of Americana, look to Norton, a native American red wine grape.

We found one we like at the Palm Desert Total Wine from Virginia’s Horton Vineyards.

Merlot

California and Washington vintners make deliciously soft and smooth Merlots to suit any budget. An excellent value pick from Washington is the Barnard Griffin 2011 Washington Merlot you can find at Dan’s Wine Shop: 760.674.0305.

With thanks for all your support – best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving!