Thanksgiving is upon us...

I can't tell you how many phone calls I've received this morning asking for recommendations on what to buy for the holiday dinner. And that -- is a great thing.

The best advice I can give you is to have fun with whatever your drinking; and the most important thing to keep in mind, is not buy a wine that will overpower what you are eating. Basically, that means if Turkey is on the menu (as it most generally is!), than you want to avoid big and heavy red wines, or exceptionally dry and/or heavy white ones.

If your holiday turkey menu features sweet side dishes such as glazed carrots or marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes, you could choose a white wine with similar sweetness, such as a chenin blanc or gewurztraminer. If your menu items are savory, you can lean toward a Johannisberg riesling, savignon blanc, or even a light, fruity chardonnay. If your bird boasts a spicy sausage stuffing, sip a Beaujolais (Nouveau is the rage for today) or lightly chilled pinot noir. (Though I personally do not care for my red wine chilled, at all.)

Think out of the box a bit... don't be afraid to play. A great pairing for Turkey is champagne. You can feel decadent and fancy while drinking a deliciously light and fruity one; Rose champagne is a perfect compliment -- and looks pretty in the glass, for those who are into aesthetics, right down down to the bubbles.

If you don't want to break the bank with the champagne, then I'd wholly suggest buying it's Italian cousin: Prosecco. Light, fruity and inexpensive - Prosecco will dress up any meal and it's very food friendly.

I mentioned a Johannisburg Riesling, but if you want to be a red wine drinker and stray from the traditional Pinot & Beaujolais - then I'd recommend a South African Merlot or Cabernet (avoid a Shiraz blend -- too spicy!). South African wine is bright, fruit forward and not so heavy that it would detract from the food you are eating.

If you're in town today -- please don't hesitate to stop in and ask for assistance with your holiday gift giving or meal pairing selections. Gene is there all day and night -- and will be more than happy to assist you. He's worked very hard to ensure that we have an outstanding inventory that is able to please even the most discriminating wine enthusiast.

From our family to yours....have a lovely holiday.