...Search

During this time of economic and political strife, there are a few things we should remember to be thankful for. Freedom is at the top of the list, followed by family and friends, then the job, and finally great wines for great prices.

This is the never ending quest of those who have the “wine bug”: finding a wine that tastes like a $30 bottle that really is only $15, or that $10 bottle that tastes like a $20 bottle. Here are a few wines that are worth searching out and being thankful for…

 Balcom & Moe Merlot 1998 (Washington) $15
Rich and ripe, this Washington State Merlot

"It is therefore recommended... to set apart Thursday the eighteenth day of December next, for solemn thanksgiving and praise, that with one heart and one voice the good people may express the grateful feelings of their hearts and consecrate themselves to the service of their divine benefactor..."
-- Samuel Adams, Father of the American Revolution, on November 1, 1777 -- adopted by the 13 states as the first official Thanksgiving Proclamation.

exhibits plenty of currant, plum and chocolate flavors to satisfy the biggest Merlot drinker. Great complexity, great depth and a great long milk chocolate finish.

Candido Salice Salentino 1997 (Italy) $7
A blend of 85% Negromaro and 15% Malvasia Nera grapes, Candido Salice Salentino has a distinct ruby red color with notes of garnet. The nose is a layered and complex with aromas of dry fruit and toasted coffee. This is an intense and full- flavored wine with a long, warm finish.

Michel Chapoutier Cotes du Rhone 1999 (France) $12
You’ll recognize this wine from France with the braille label on the front, the only brand that labels in braille (Michel Chapoutier has a blind relative that he does this for). This blend of Syrah and Grenache is medium bodied and has black currant fruit that should drink well for the next couple of years.

Rancho Zabaco Dry Creek Zinfandel 1999 (California) $15
The Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel is big and chewy with concentrated, explosive blackberry and boysenberry fruit flavors framed with spicy oak. The addition of Petite Sirah and Barbera contributes black pepper spice and the impressive structure that carries our wine to a full finish. This Zin tames seasoned and grilled meats. Beef, lamb and heartier pork dishes provide the perfect match.

L’Ecole No. 41 “Barrel Fermented” Semillon Columbia Valley 2000 (Washington) $15
This is the perfect alternative to Chardonnay. Medium body, layers of lush fruit balanced with crisp acidity. Aromas of pear and tropical fruit make it a great match for Asian Food. A Washington original.

Hedges Fume-Chardonnay Columbia Valley 2000 (Washington) $12
Experience Chardonnay without its clothes on! No oak, no malolactic fermentation, no butter…just crisp green apple fruit straight from the earth. This is perfect for light seafood or chicken dishes.

Search out these wines and enjoy them as great values and great wines. Drink them with an array of foods, or by themselves…but when drinking them remember all the things you’re thankful for.

Happy Thanksgiving from WineSquire.com!

Andrew Campbell is Executive Editor for WineSquire.com

Questions and 
answers about wine.