Once upon a time, in a cozy West Coast home, preparations were underway for a Thanksgiving feast that would capture the essence of the region. The bountiful offerings of the Pacific coast were eagerly anticipated—a unique and delicious celebration. Eventually the family would wander into the house, the son, the daughter, the extended family with aunts, uncles, and cousins. All to be greeted with a myriad of dinner courses, fine conversations, and of course, local wines from California to Washington State to complement the diverse flavors of the meal.

Can you pick out the cheap wine versus the more expensive version? There is a reason some wines are more expensive than others. Does it mean they are better? Not always; however, in most cases, the lesser-priced wines are not at a quality level. Can you say, “Headache in a glass?”

When selecting a wine to bring to a social event, a red blend often stands out as an excellent choice. Its versatility, crowd-pleasing qualities, and adaptability to various culinary pairings make it a smart option for gatherings with diverse tastes. Red blends not only provide a reliable and consistent flavor profile, but also serve as a great conversation starter, thanks to their complex nature and the intriguing blend of different grape varieties. Plus, their accessibility ensures that you can bring a quality bottle without breaking the bank, making them the perfect companion for a memorable social occasion.

The vinedressers have made all the preparations. All the vineyard pruning, spraying, cultivating, and green harvesting have been accomplished. The air is cooling, and ripening has slowed. Perhaps a slight pause to consider the most magical day of the year: harvest day!