Even though Zinfandel (Red not the Pinkish stuff) is often considered the natural match for the annual Thanksgiving Turkey, I decided to mention 3 recent wine buys, all Red, none from the US, all in the $10 to $12 range.
First one is the Carchelo ‘Monastrell’ (2006) from Bodegas Agapito Rico in Jumilla.
Grapes come from the ‘Casas de la Hoya’ organic vineyards in high altitude, on arid terrain.
Displays jammy, concentrated flavors.
Some Syrah and Merlot adds balance to the Monastrell (Mourvedre).
" Tart and taut, with good focus" states Thomas Matthews, Wine Spectator (2007-11-01)
Second is Casa Silva Reserva "Carmenere" (2005) from Chile it was a Trophy Winner at Chile’s first annual Carmenere competition. Kudos from The Telegraph (UK) remind us that Carmenere was thought to have been decimated by disease in the 1800’s in France only to resurface in Chile.
Similar ruby red colors as the Monastrell, rich but with soft tannins.
Let’s go back to Europe with Castello Monaci Negroamaro, Maru, 2006.
The winery is located near the town of Salice Salentino in Apulia.
Made entirely from the native grape variety Negroamaro, Maru which means “severe, dark” in the local Salentino dialect. The producer describes it as a wine which evokes a land that breathes.
Tasting Notes from West Side Wines (Connecticut) describe it as "rich and sumptuous yet balanced with a slightly bitter finish. With the Maru, some of Negroamaro’s darker elements are toned down with the result a deeply colored medium-bodied red with lush black cherry and spice flavor".
Related story: Staying Alive…Eat a Guilt Free Fish for Thanksgiving
Wine and Turkey: Will my wine for ‘Thanksgiving’ be a California Zinfandel or a Red Burgundy..Not sure yet