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From everyday meals to special occasions, Andi's motto is: Keep it simple. Keep it fun. And, above all, keep it delicious.
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Find the Wine
by bethsdish  11/6/2009 8:58:00 AM

Pick one or two wines for Thanksgiving; stock up NOW!

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If I had to choose just one wine for Thanksgiving, it would be a light, crisp, dry ad spicy Riesling, hands down. It goes with just about every dish, from appetizers through dessert. There's a good reason Rieslings are one of the fastest growing varietals on the market. Among wine lovers (chefs, producers, sommeliers) this wine gets high marks for its out-going and food friendly character. In short, it compliments just about anything it is served with, from the canapes, to the mashed potatoes, turkey and its stuffing, through a cheese course and pumpkin or pecan pie for dessert. Riesling is known for its balance of acidity and sugar so that it can perk up and refresh light spicy flavors (think appetizers of shrimp satay or even chips and salsa) and it can cut through robust roasts and buttery sweet potatoes. There is no "oak" used in making Riesling (the favor that is associated with the oak barrels of Chardonnay), so what comes through is a straight, pristine flavor (dry and sweet) of fruit. Within this category, there are several options available. The domestic varieties from Washington are a good bet, rounded, not terribly sweet. Of the German Rieslings, Kabinett is the driest, Spatese is next (though a bit fruitier). 

Among red wines, Pinot Noir is the traditional Thanksgiving pick and a safe one. It's easy going, not too heavy, medium bodied with enough character to stand up to the wide range of flavors. If you want something heartier, a Zinfandel works nicely, too. Beaujolais Nouveau, released the 3rd week in November is a light fruity wine and a celebratory seasonal favorite. 

Finally, if you're thinking of something more spirited than coffee to serve with those pies, consider a tawny port or a late harvest Riesling, often known as Ice Wine; the first viscous and rich tasting, the second a bit lighter. Both very sweet. 

My advice is to choose one white and one red and pour them both throughout the dinner (offering too many options becomes confusing and this is such a humble, straightforward meal, there's no reason to create too much of a fuss.) That said, if a guest offers to bring wine to dinner, say yes.

Tags:  the pour



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