Thankful Thanksgiving with West Coast Wines

• Posted on 6 November 2024
• Posted in Cabernet Sauvignon, California, chardonnay, Cinsault, grenache, Malbec, merlot, Oregon, pinot gris/pinot grigio, Syrah, tempranillo, Washington
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In a cozy West Coast home, preparations were in full swing for a Thanksgiving feast that would capture the region's essence. This celebration, shaped by the bounty of the Pacific coast, promised an unforgettable experience filled with seasonal produce, diverse dishes, and wines that showcased California and Oregon’s finest. The gathering brought together family and friends—parents, siblings, cousins, and extended family—all excited to savor the local flavors that defined the holiday meal.

As guests arrived and mingled, they enjoyed artisanal bread and a carefully curated selection of cheeses, setting the tone for the evening. The night began with a refreshing Fullerton Three Otters Pinot Gris 2022 from Oregon's Willamette Valley. With its warm aromas of white flowers, peach, apricot, and pineapple, this off-dry Pinot Gris had a lovely balance of fruit and floral flavors that made it the perfect starter, gently awakening the palate for the meal ahead. 

The first course presented an array of locally sourced vegetables, celebrating the West Coast's farm-to-table philosophy. Brussels sprouts, kale, butternut squash, and wild mushrooms created a vibrant, seasonal display that emphasized the freshness and quality of the region’s produce. To pair, The Fableist Chardonnay 163 2023, from San Luis Obispo, offered crisp aromas of Bosc pear, apple, honey, and citrus. This Chardonnay, with its subtle notes of toast and wet stone, complemented the buttery vegetables and garlic seasoning, adding a touch of elegance that harmonized with the meal’s earthy flavors. 

Then came a true West Coast delight: a seafood platter featuring freshly caught salmon and Dungeness crab, a tribute to the region’s coastal abundance. The bright acidity and fruity notes of the Chardonnay continued to elevate these flavors, making for a memorable combination. As the centerpiece of the feast, a beautifully roasted, locally sourced turkey took the stage, prepared with a hint of West Coast flair. The bird’s savory aroma filled the air, mingling with the scent of rosemary, sage, and thyme. This dish found its perfect match in the Morgan Cotes Du Crow's 2020 from Monterey, California. This blend of Grenache, Syrah, Tempranillo, and Cinsault brought deep ruby hues and aromas of blackberry, black plum, and violet, with subtle hints of smoke and vanilla. The wine’s flavors of strawberry, black pepper, and earth complemented the turkey’s flavors beautifully, whether guests opted for a traditional roast or a smoked version. 

For vegetarian and vegan guests, stuffed acorn squash and vegetable-based main courses offered a satisfying and sustainable alternative, celebrating the West Coast’s commitment to inclusivity and environmental awareness. This course paired well with the Peirano Estate Vineyards Winemaker’s Selection 2022 from Lodi, California—a blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Tempranillo. With its deep ruby color and aromas of lavender, violets, rich plum, and smoky earth, this red blend highlighted the caramelized sweetness of the roasted vegetables. Notes of black currant, boysenberry, and cranberry, along with hints of baking spice, made this wine an ideal choice for balancing the richness of the dish.

 The cranberry sauce brought a delightful twist to the traditional holiday meal, blending cranberries with local citrus fruits like oranges, adding a burst of bright, zesty flavor to the savory dishes. With each course, the meal reflected the West Coast's diverse culinary landscape, capturing the vibrant flavors that defined the region’s Thanksgiving spirit.

Of course, no Thanksgiving dinner would be complete without dessert. Traditional pumpkin and apple pies took center stage, featuring local apple varieties and a blend of seasonal spices. Some guests opted for creative pumpkin-inspired treats, while others savored classic pie flavors. As the perfect companion, Well Hung Creamy Dreams provided a smooth, indulgent finish to the evening. This Virginia-based Viognier-based dessert wine, enhanced with cream and a hint of dark chocolate extract, offered a luxurious contrast to the pies, reminiscent of a sweet liqueur that lingered on the palate like a rich holiday memory. 

This West Coast Thanksgiving dinner was more than just a meal; it was a celebration of local flavors, sustainability, and the region's unique culinary identity. With each course, family and friends raised their glasses in gratitude for the traditions and innovations that made this evening special. In a final toast, the guests clinked their glasses, giving thanks for the unforgettable flavors and warm connections that made this West Coast Thanksgiving truly extraordinary.