by Jade Palmer, wine buyer @ Hop City Krog
This is the time of year where all the wine blogs and magazines tell you all of the “perfect” wine pairings for your Thanksgiving dinner. While I absolutely love Beaujolais, it’s not the only wine that is well-suited for giving thanks.
This week’s newsletter is all about different expressions of typical Thanksgiving wines. Wines that you could overlook while searching for the perfect Cru Beaujolais to pair with your homemade cranberry sauce.
Domaine Sérol Turbullent ($27.99 @ Krog)
I fell in love with this wine the moment I tasted it. And I fell in love all over again when I had it as a pre-dinner drink at Ticonderoga Club a few months ago. Yes, it’s Gamay…but different. It’s a slightly off-dry pet-nat that is teeming with fresh strawberry, raspberry, and red apple notes. No funk, only fun. Start off your day of thanks with this one!
Thevenet et Fils Macon-Pierreclos ($22.99 @ Krog)
While White Burgundy is a fantastic pairing with roast turkey, prices for these wines are skyrocketing year after year. The Mâconnais region is a great place to get white Burgundy at an affordable price. This one has pleasing aromas of yellow apples, Bosc pears, and a pleasant acidity on the finish. And here’s a fun fact…it doesn’t see any oak! For those who are wary of oaked Chards, this wine is right up your alley.
Casa Emma Chianti Classico Riserva Vignalparco ($32.99 @ Krog & West End)
Chianti tastes like fall to me. All of its earthy spiciness and balsamic notes remind me of walking outside on a crisp autumn day. It’s got a whole lot going on - violets, blackberry, blackcurrant, dried oregano, velvety tannins, and a touch of minerality. This goes well with pizza, lasagna, or just a good time!
Domaine Nico Grand-Mère Pinot Noir ($32.99 @ Krog)
If you haven’t tried high-elevation Pinot Noir from Mendoza, you’re missing out! This wine is Burgundian in style, yet uniquely Argentine. I’m telling you - Domaine Nico overdelivers for the price. Think fresh red cherry and strawberry supported by an elegant dose of baking spices and forest floor aromas.
Stolpman Vineyards Crunchy Rôastie ($25.99 @ Krog & West End)
We absolutely love Stolpman Vineyards at Hop City; they have a fantastic mission and are doing their part to ensure complete sustainability in their production. Did you know that they employ everyone as full-time employees with benefits? That’s not the norm in this industry, but it absolutely should be. This carbonic Syrah has all the classic flavors of black plum, blackberry, and olives, but showcased in a brighter, lighter way. If you’re considering serving Syrah this Thanksgiving, switch it up a bit with this one. It’s a crowd pleaser for sure!
