Bethel Heights Estate Grown Chardonnay 2010 (Eola-Amity Hills, Oregon), $24: This family-owned-and-operated winery is one of the oldest in its appellation, not to mention a sustainable and eco-conscious business. With creamy lemon curd flavors and mouthwatering acidity, Bethel Heights’ flagship chardonnay makes a delicious addition to Thanksgiving dinner.
Scholium Project “The Gardens of Babylon” NV (Suisun Valley, California), $36: It may not be traditional, but it’s certainly a fun wine to have on Turkey Day. A former professor of ancient philosophy crafts this wild blend of 2009 and 2010 vintages of petite sirah, zinfandel, syrah, and cinsault. With juicy, dark fruit notes, it’s deliciously food-friendly.
Pierre Peters “Cuvée Millésimée L’Esprit” Champagne 2006 (Côte de Blancs, France), $68: The family behind these bubbles has been producing Champagne for six generations. Made from the chardonnay grapes of four Grand Cru villages in the Cotes de Blancs, this cuvée has flavors of green pear, spices, and white florals.
Cain Vineyard & Winery “Cain Five” 2007 (Napa Valley, California), $90: Thanks to a blend of all five Bordeaux red varietals, with predominantly cabernet sauvignon, this is an elegant wine. A rich texture and long finish with dark fruits and sweet vanilla flavors on the palate defines the grapes, which come from the Cain Estate in the Spring Mountain district of Napa.
Didier Dagueneau “Silex” 2007 (Pouilly-Fume, France), $180: This one-of-a-kind sauvignon blanc was made by one of the top cult-winemakers in the world. Although Monsieur Dagueneau passed away in 2008, this particular vintage was a favorite and is a delight to sip with notes of lime zest, spice cake, and white flowers along with bright acidity.
