Wines to Give Thanks For

This month's picks from the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center

We wish every day could be Thanksgiving. We can never be thankful enough for the good things in life. Also, the wines that go best with the hodgepodge of dishes in a Thanksgiving meal are the best wines to pair with most things we eat: wines that are soft, abundantly fruity, and food-friendly, refreshing rather than tiring on the palate.

Think of the classic Thanksgiving wine the way you think of cranberry sauce: it's not the main dish, but it sure as heck adds a zesty sweetness to the lean taste of turkey meat, a spiciness to match just about any kind of stuffing, and a piquant yet smooth texture to punctuate the richest gravy. What's Thanksgiving without sides of cranberry, or a good bottle of wine?

The best Thanksgiving wine is one that's not too heavy, nor too dry or sweet, lest it dominates the foods it's supposed to complement. Try these four Lodi wines perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, each in its own bountifully rich way.

For more information: Visit the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center, and taste from a selection of over two hundred award-winning Lodi wines. 2545 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 367-4727, www.lodiwine.com

Ripken Vineyards 2007 "Under the Sea" Primitivo

For Zin lovers, Primitivo is a close cousin: genetically identical, yet flavored with an even softer, gentler kind of berry-ish-ness. Ripken's Primitivo is grown in the farthest western edge of Lodi at slightly below sea level (hence the Under the Sea moniker), and its fruitiness is akin to bushels of bright, zesty raspberries. Just the thing for even the most richly stuffed turkeys. ($18 / www.ripkenwine.com)

Grands Amis Winery 2008 "Premiere Passion" Red

A Bordeaux inspired red wine blend, with Cabernet Sauvignon (40 percent), Petit Verdot (33 percent), Malbec (17 percent) and Merlot (10 percent). Round and soft, black currant and black cherryish fruit qualities seamlessly knit into a smooth, medium-full body, finishing with an almost crème de cassis-like sweetness. If roast beef or lamb are part of your Thanksgiving ritual, Première Passion is the right choice. ($25 / www.grandsamis.com)

Harney Lane Winery 2008 Zinfandel

We know this grape originated in Europe, but there's perhaps no fine wine more uniquely "American" than Zinfandel. The luscious, juicy wild berry qualities of classic Zinfandel – often described as "jammy"– also make it the ultimate Thanksgiving wine. The plump, sumptuous, full-yet-lush qualities of this Zin will complement just about anything, from turkey to candied marshmallow yams. ($22 / www.harneylane.com)

Uvaggio 2009 "Dolce" Moscato

Many wine lovers prefer white no matter what they're eating. A feathery light, medium-sweet white, the Uvaggio Dolce is still crisp and balanced enough to keep the palate feeling refreshed down to the last drop. Its intriguingly flowery, orange blossom, cinnamon, and musk spiced fruitiness is electrified by tangy, citrusy, natural acidity. Deep-fried turkey, Cajun style dressings, sausage, and fruit stuffings all pair incredibly. ($18 / www.uvaggio.com)

FEATURED WINE

A graceful balance with wines that remain true to the varietals' fresh fruit character with the added textures and wood tones derived from French and American oak cooperages.

Viaggio Winery and Estate is located in the middle of one of the most famous winemaking regions in California, in the "heart" of Lodi's Wine Country. Conveniently accessible from both Hwy 99 and I-5, Viaggio is a secluded and private estate with classic elegance nestled among beautiful walnut orchards and the serenity of the river. Viaggio's stunning and exquisite backdrop of the Mokelumne River offers lush outside grounds and several venues, each with gorgeous picturesque views. Viaggio Estate and Winery offers something for everyone. Whether you are planning an extravagant wedding or a small intimate gathering, a corporate or fundraising event, Viaggio offers selections beyond comparison.

Come join us for tasting in our Winery open Friday - Sunday

Viaggio on the River located at:

100 East Taddei Rd.
Acampo, CA 95220