This year, perhaps more than ever, Thanksgiving is suffering from serious middle-child syndrome. Like a little kid sitting in the backseat with her feet on the hump, stuck between her holiday siblings (rowdy, hyper-active Halloween and adorably bright Christmas), Thanksgiving is being over looked. This is our opportunity to take back Turkey Day. We must rally against the early Black Friday hours that cut into our family, football, and nap time. Thanksgiving is a day when we can slow down, relax, drink a good glass of wine, and recall the things for which we are thankful.

Me? I’m thankful Nino’s is closed on Thanksgiving Day!

Take a look at our picks for the most anticipated dinner of the year!

J.P. Chenet Rosé Sparkling NV, France $9.99 –

Fresh and fruity, this bubbly expresses summer red fruits, rose hips and a soft, silky finish. It’s a crowd pleaser for sure!

Brassfield Serenity Proprietary White Blend, High Valley California 2011 $13.99 –

The folks over at Brassfield utilize the fruity qualities of Pinot Grigio, acidity of Sauvignon Blanc, and spice of Gewurztraminer to make their irresistible white blend. Conveying nectarine, honeydew melon and citrus flavors, the Serenity is full and refreshing.

Villa Wolf Gewürztraminer, Germany 2011 $11.99 –

Bright and glistening, this Gewürztraminer is a classic, with cooked pear, nutmeg, and lychee.  Intensely flavored, the Villa Wolf has enough acidity to cut through heavy gravies and rich stuffing.

Tomaiolo Chianti Classico Riserva, Italy $16.99 –

It may seem odd to put Chianti on our Thanksgiving Day blog, but at my house and I’m sure many others, there is always something coated in red sauce at the table. Besides that, I am simply excited about this fabulous wine. Featuring dark, macerated fruits with toasty oak and just the right amount of tannin to lift the sophistication, this wine tastes like a true Chianti Classico Riserva at a fraction of the price.

Don’t let Thanksgiving be a shrinking violet this year! Take a stand to make Thanksgiving more than just a Thursday off between holidays. Enjoy these wines and have an amazing Thanksgiving!

Enjoy!

–         Jennifer Laurie