When it comes to Thanksgiving, the wine pairing for whites is gewürztraminer.  This floral varietal that leans slightly sweet, is the perfect compliment to turkey and sides thanks to its rich body and balanced acidity.  Riesling fans will feel right at home with gewürztraminer as well thanks to the light sweetness, and similar flavor profiles from a honey and aromatic stand point..  As an added plus, the alcohol content is also lower, making for easy drinking for guests, who won’t be overwhelmed with alcohol.

The best rieslings are typically found from Alsace in France, the Finger Lakes in New York, and from Germany.  Both California and Washington also make good examples.  Hailing from Washington, Two Vines Gewürztraminer 2014 is a potential perfect addition to your Thanksgiving meal at under a Hamilton.  Is it worth it though?

Sight:  A firm gold from edge to edge

Smell:  The nose is full of honey, floral notes, lychee, and apricots all lace together in a floral-fruity symphony of smells.

Sip:  Starting slightly sweet, it moves slightly tart, and has a subtle hint of bubbles.  The acidity is on the lower end, and the richness of the body takes over part way through giving it a solid round mouthfeel.   Flavor wise, it’s packed with honey, honeysuckle, lychee,  and lemon.  HInts of subtle spices like cardamom and juniper come through.

Savor:  The end has a little bit of bitterness from the floral notes, but pulls in a good amount of honey, lemon pith, and floral notes.

Two Vines Gewürztraminer is a nice choice for thanksgiving, if a bit on the simple side.  The floral notes are lovely, and should compliment some of the herbal notes in the meal, while the sweetness will play well off sweet potatoes and dressings.  The richness of the body should also work well with the turkey.  For the price, Two Vines Gewürztraminer is a great choice if you like riesling, or want something new to try on the table at Thanksgiving.

Verdict:  Rich, Floral, Lemon Zest, Lychee
Price: $8
Washington