12 Affordable Wines for Thanksgiving
Crisp and Refreshing Whites
2008 Erath Pinot Gris, $13
Talk about fruity. From a veteran Oregon winemaker, this lively pick is redolent of pear, ripe banana, and peach blossom.
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2009 Charles Smith Kung Fu Girl Riesling, $13
Fresh and light, with a kick (sorry) of apricot and lychee.
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Gruet Brut Champenoise NV, $15
Get the party started with this dry New Mexican sparkler. Among the highlights: fine bubbles and the slight pucker of green apple.
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Lush and Round Whites
2009 Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc Viognier, $14
What do you get when you mix two winning grapes? All sorts of delicious flavors, like honeydew, peach, and jasmine. Bliss.
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2008 Hayman & Hill Russian River Valley Reserve Selection Chardonnay, $14
Big and rich, with a bright finish, this pick is extra turkey-friendly, thanks to tasty notes of tropical fruit, butterscotch, and oak.
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2009 Bonny Doon Vineyard Ca’ del Solo Muscat, $15
Not to be confused with the sticky dessert wines also made from Muscat, this not-too-sweet white seduces with aromas of honeysuckle and basil.
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Soft and Fruity Reds
2008 Pertinace Barbera d’Alba, $15
Hints of blackberry, black cherry, and violets add elegance to this zippy wine from Italy.
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2008 Georges Dubœuf Morgon Jean Descombes, $15
Loaded with aromas of black currant and roses, this Beaujolais is surprisingly jammy without being overpowering.
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2009 Matua Valley Marlborough Pinot Noir, $14
Everything we love about Pinot Noir: Bing cherry notes, a medium body, and a floral, smoky perfume.
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Bold and Rich Reds
2006 Montevina Zinfandel, $11
A juicy example of one of America’s great grapes. Easy to drink on its own yet complex enough to stand up to the heartiest dishes on the table.
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2008 Heartland Stickleback Red, $12
Made from an unusual blend of Italian varietals, this spicy, plummy red takes hold and won’t let go. Super satisfying.
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2008 Planeta La Segreta Sicily IGT, $14
A lush, vibrant mix of Nero d’Avola, Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc—think dark berries, cloves, and plums.