Thanksgiving is so deeply American. It combines homecoming with a feast. Goodwill reigns. It also signals the launch of the Holiday season when shopping, concerts, decorations, and seasonal music embrace all aspects of daily living.
In keeping with the Thanksgiving traditions, why don’t we serve some of our own wines, mixing up what’s available to be enjoyed? America produces great wines that win international acclaim. Our choices are countless and some of the most heralded are quite reasonable.
With so many American sparkling wines available, there’s no need to serve Champagne, Spanish Cava, or Prosecco. The just-released 2017 King Estate Brut Cuvée from the renowned Oregon winery is a gloriously refreshing aperitif that will add to the anticipation as we enjoy flutes with delicious Canapés.
Cynthiana, also known as Norton, was first produced in Virginia and its bona fides are pure American. I compare it to wines from France’s Rhone Valley. I keep a few bottles to pour at Thanksgiving because it’s a delicious red with a compelling story. American interpretations of Syrah are festive and will satisfy those who like a bold red.
North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley is wine country with a Southern accent. A journey here merits a week for all who love wine. Viognier from RagApple Lassie Vineyards in Boonville deserves a place on the Thanksgiving dinner table. The classic white wine originally from France has taken to American soil so seamlessly that we can almost give it citizenship.
Riesling and Gerwürztraminier are wonderful white wines for Thanksgiving and American producers in New York’s Finger Lakes and Washington state offer a wide selection.
Reds, whites, rosés, sparklers, you name it. The unofficial rule for Thanksgiving wine is variety. Guests will gravitate to what they like and the host need not be concerned with pairing.
Happy Thanksgiving!
