By Gary Parker, Owner
The WineSellar & Brasserie

There are so many dishes served at Thanksgiving, it is impossible to find one wine that will go with everything on the table. So rather than trying to accomplish the impossible, here are wines that are very versatile, and have a good balance of acid and fruit, so they pair very well with food. Note I did not include any California Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah wines, as I feel they are typically to heavy to match up with food. That doesn’t mean I would turn one down though!

Sparkling Rose’, Lucien Albrecht, Alsace, France, NV    $22.99
Always a favorite sparkling wine, as it is dry, well balanced, has excellent flavor.
It’s great with food, and bringing a Sparkling wine always seems to add to the festive mood.

White Pinot Noir, Philtrum, Willamette, Oregon, 2015   $29.99
Yes, a white wine made from Pinot Noir grapes. It is a very interesting wine, in it feels like a white wine in your palate, but has the assertion and nuances of a lovely Pinot Noir. This is a great find if you’re joining in with people that know wine. It is a very rare breed!

Rose’ Domaine Hourchart, “Tete de Cuvee”. MAGNUM, Cotes de Provence, France 2015    $36.99
Got a lot of people coming to the party? Bringing a magnum (2 bottles in one) of a fabulous Rose’ will have a significant impact on the party. It’s dry and delicious, with notes of strawberry and melon.

Bordeaux Red, Chateau Teyssier, Montagne St. Emilion, 2010   $19.99
With Bordeaux, it’s a lot about the texture. The Chateau Teyssier has a little bit fuller mouth feel than typical Bordeaux, but maintains that elegant, smooth, pleasing feel in the mouth. It’s a show-stopper for a very reasonable price.

Pinot Noir, El Molino, Napa Valley, 2014    $64.99
The queen has arrived!!! This elegant, yet rich Pinot Noir will class up any Thanksgiving dinner. I can taste the gravy and this Pinot Noir right now! The Chardonnay ($49.49) is also one of the best I have had from California in recent memory. The El Molino wines are typically not available at the retail level, and they are highly sought after.

Muscat de Beaumes de Venice, Delas, France  $29.99
This dessert wine is an incredible match with pumpkin pie and whipped cream. It has fruity and floral aromatics, and a generous sweetness in the palate without being too heavy or cloying. Everyone will want a second pour.