Best Bets For the #1 Wine-drinking day in the U.S.
Ecker Gruner Veltliner 2009
Austria, $11
Sometimes referred to as Austrian Pinot Grigio, this wine has more body and balance to stand up to turkey. It’s from a 300-year-old vineyard that produces only 3,000 cases of this clean, food-friendly wine. Herbal and grassy notes make this a turkey day winner.
Gloria Ferrer Va de Vi “Ultra Cuvee” Sparkling NV
California, $15.99
Sparkling wine is a holiday tradition, and this one will get through the whole day. It offers hints of peach, pear and floral notes, plus spice and a red fruit finish. It’s full of flavor. You can’t help but enjoy this bargain-price sparkler.
Forest Grove Cellars 2009 Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley , Oregon, $16
This wine is from the best locale for pinot in the United States, the Willamette Valley of Oregon. This 09’er typifies what the vineyard does best: cherry and raspberry highlights, juicy spice, medium body and elegant texture. If you select only one wine for this day, make it a Pinot Noir.
Park Lane Gewurztraminer 2007
Alexander Valley, California, $11
For a light and spicy, all-purpose choice, Gewurztraminer is spot on. The best are from Alsace, but this all-American version is up to the challenge. It’s low in alcohol and easy to sip all day long, right through the last football game.
Cambria Katherine’s Vineyard Chardonnay 2006
California, $18
It’s always a safe choice, especially with any heavy sauces or gravy. This one offers big smoky oak with orange, apricot and vanilla notes. It delivers all you expect from a California chard due to its big, oaky flavors. Plus, it’s dry and crisp—perfect for the big bird.
WINES COURTESY OF THE WINERIES & (1) BE MEGAN ROWLEY