{Full disclosure: Some of the products suggested in this list were provided to me at no charge.}
Pinot Noir and Thanksgiving go hand in hand. If you have never had this pairing, you are truly missing out. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
So Why Pinot Noir?
Pinot Noir is the perfect Thanksgiving wine because it is a high acid wine, with soft to low tannins, fruity and depending on where it’s from can have herbaceous qualities. It’s versatile, and a crowd pleaser (even with a non-wine lover). Pinot Noir pairs amazingly with everything in the Thanksgiving lineup from turkey breast to green beans to stuffing and gravy – even that piece of pie (or two) you have at the end of the meal.
Unlike some other red wines, we’re looking at you Cabernet, Pinot Noir will not over power your food experience. Don’t get me wrong, I love me a Cabernet, but if you’re looking for something to truly complement your festive turkey day dishes, opt for Pinot Noir.
Here are 7 Must-Have Pinot Noirs For Your Thanksgiving Meal
Failla
One of my absolute favorite Pinot houses in Napa. These people know how to make some damn good Pinot. With a focus on Sonoma fruit, these Pinots are diverse. This one in particular, the Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, is full of juicy red fruits, light herbs and a soft mouthfeel. This will pair perfectly with all of those turkey day herbs!
Toulouse Vineyards and Winery
Anderson Valley is home to some of the best Pinots. One of my favorite producers is Toulouse. That’s why their 2013 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir is a must (I know the bottle shot is a different year, sorry! But wanted you to see the label.). High acid, lots of mineralities and bright cherry and cola, hold the cranberry sauce, I’ll take a glass of this instead!
Clos Du Val
If a Pinot Noir is coming from Napa, it’s most likely from the Carneros area, which is located in South Napa. Cooler temperature and morning fog are ideal temps for this finicky grape. This Gran Val Vineyard Pinot Noir has a full mouth feel with layers of strawberry and a light tannin on the finish. Can’t beat this accompaniment to your turkey and fixins.
Fog Crest Vineyards
Super small Sonoma County producer – this winery has their Pinot down. Lighter in body and finish, these Pinots are delicate and very floral. This would be the perfect one to enjoy before or after dinner, on it’s own. Also, highly suggest visiting this property if you can. The view is gorgeous!
Walt Wines
Well known for their Pinot Noir production, Walt creates incredibly balanced and delicious wines. I’ve never had a Walt Pinot Noir that I didn’t enjoy. Their Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir is from the Central Coast and is a true expression of the terroir. Bright rhubarb and cherry pie immediately hit the palate followed by a light spice and slight earthiness – a perfect food pairing wine.
Balletto
A Sonoma classic, Balletto has been making Pinot Noir for a long time. With many different Pinot offerings, I’m opting for this Russian River Pinot Noir because of its savory and baking spice characteristics, which will pair perfectly with turkey, and stuffing, and pumpkin pie, and…yum! This wine recently scored 90 points with Wine Enthusiast!
Papapietro Perry
There’s nothing quite like a Russian River Pinot Noir. Rich in taste and texture, but still full of finesse. The nose on this Pinot Noir is straight up heaven in a glass, which is just as pleasing as soon as you take a sip. I enjoy all of their Pinots, especially Peters Vineyard Pinot Noir.
Which Pinot Noir will you have on your table this holiday? Whatever you choose to drink, I wish you all a very happy Thanksgiving holiday filled with lots and lots of wine and maybe some turkey. Remember to count your blessings – in light of recent events, I am *extra* thankful this year.
Cheers,
Raquel
