KENNEWICK -- This is it for Thanksgiving.
Grocers are running their big advertisements for Thanksgiving today since the holiday is a week from tomorrow.
For the past two weeks, I've suggested inexpensive wines to serve with the big turkey dinner. And this week I've added a suggestion for nondrinkers and those under 21.
Sheffield's apple cider, $10 -- A Mesa family is making this in delicious dry, sweet and tart cherry-infused styles that are perfect for those who can't have or don't want any spirits for Thanksgiving. It can be found at Country Mercantile north of Pasco, Cheese Louise in Richland and is on order for Ranch & Home stores in Pasco and Kennewick.
And, for the wine lovers who are still looking, here are a few more suggestions:
Pacific Rim nonvintage White Flower brut sparkling Riesling, $14 -- This is made in California from Washington grapes for a West Richland-based winery. It's crisp and refreshing with tasty sweet lemon flavors and great bubbles. It can start your meal accompanied by gourmet mixed nuts and end it with pecan pie.
Gordon Brothers 2008 Chardonnay, estate grown, Columbia Valley, $16 -- This one has a great balance of vanilla oak and crisp apple fruit with a rich aftertaste. Pair it with Waldorf salad or apple stuffing.
Washington Hills 2007 Summit Reserve Late Harvest Riesling, Washington, $10-$12 -- Just right for those who like things a bit sweet, but not too sweet at 4 percent residual sugar. It brings good acid balance with apricot flavors and hints of orange. Good with holiday gelatin salads or fruit dishes.
Maryhill 2006 Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley, $18 -- This one opens with aromas of spice and black pepper, then adds rich black currant flavors. Try it with smoked turkey.
Desert Wind 2007 Sangiovese, Wahluke Slope, $16 -- Serve this slightly chilled to complement its strawberry overtones and hint of spice. It will be great with white meat and cranberries and some mashed potatoes and butter.
Goose Ridge Estate 2006 g3 Red Wine, $16 -- Its name symbolizes the three generations of the winery owners, the Monson family. It's a blend of Syrah, Merlot and Malbec offering smooth dark cherries and black pepper. Just right with turkey breast or beef roast.
Milbrandt 2007 Traditions Syrah, Columbia Valley, $13 -- Jammy, smooth flavors and aromas mostly of blackberries and plums. The red wine lover can sip it throughout the meal.
Badger Mountain nonvintage N.S.A. Cabernet Franc organic Port-style, Columbia Valley, $17 -- Organically grown grapes yield a classic New World port with smooth chocolate and bing cherry flavors to keep the 18 percent alcohol in check. It finishes with dried fruit and caramel flavors. Serve with cheese and creamed stuffed dates at the meal's end.
*Bob Woehler has been writing about Pacific Northwest wines since 1978.
E-mail him at bwoehler@charter.net or check out his past columns at www.winepressnw.com.
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Last week, we shared some of the top wines from British Columbia's Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery, which won six Platinums in the 12th competition.
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