Thanksgiving: Wines to Kick Back and Pour

Yes, wine belongs on the Thanksgiving table. But it’s also a good accompaniment for all the shopping and TV-watching that takes place over the long holiday weekend.

Holiday Weekend Wines

After Hitting the Black Friday Sales

Unwind with a refreshing and affordable wine like a good Albariño, the top white grape of Spain.

Bottles to Look For

2010 Salneval ($9)
2010 Condes de Albarei ($12)
2010 Burgans ($14)

Watching Football

Open something powerful. Even if you aren’t a hulking linebacker, a big, intense California Zinfandel will make you feel like one.

Bottles to Look For

2009 Easton Amador County ($16)
2009 Artezin Mendocino County ($18)
2008 Teira Sonoma County ($18)

Watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Go for a sparkling wine. Bubbles are a great match for 100-foot-tall Kermit the Frog balloons.

Bottles to Look For

2008 Raventós i Blanc L’Hereu Cava ($19)
NV Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut ($15)

Article updated November 2011.

More Holiday Tips and Pairings:

Ultimate Thanksgiving Guide

50 Wine Classics

15 Rules for Great Pairings

Published November 2009