The turkey has been purchased and is thawing, you managed to track down French fried onions for the green bean casserole, and against all odds, you even found cranberry sauce! There’s just one thing left to do – select the wine. If you’re like me and you enjoy a glass with dinner but have no idea what pairs well with what, this can be intimidating at best. Luckily, there are two local wine heroes who always make sure the vino is flowing and won’t break the bank. Claudia Masüger, founder of Beijing’s beloved Cheers Wine and Jacquelin, wine consultant for Ruche Falanghina Wine gave us their suggestions for enjoyable varietals that can be delivered in time for tomorrow’s dinner.
Budget bottles under RMB 100:
Jacquelin suggests the versatile Gran Sasso Sangiovese. “Sangiovese is one of Italy’s flagship wines, high acidity, dry but fruity, mid bodied, and approachable for most people. It goes with most poultry and side dishes.” At RMB 90 per bottle, it’s easy on the wallet and you can keep it flowing all night.
Meanwhile, Masüger suggests Gruener Veltliner, which is “perfectly fitting to roast turkey and all the trimmings. It’s Austria’s most popular white wine. Grüner Veltliner is dry, light, crispy, and beautiful.” At RMB 99 it’s a no-brainer for a white dinner wine.
Something special under RMB 300:
This limited edition Piero from Margaret River, West Australia is Jacquelin’s pick for a value splurge. “A James Halliday Red 5 star rated winery. Pierro LTCF is rated 95 points by James Halliday wine companion. Originally LTCF refers to ‘Little Touch of Cabernet Franc’ but the Christmas edition changed it to ‘Little Touch of Christmas Folly.’ This is a limited edition of only 2,400 bottles each vintage.” It’s described as an easy-drinking medium-bodied red that’s great with game meat like duck…or turkey! RMB 295 per bottle.
Lamartine AOC is the next pick from Cheers Wine. Masüger explains: “Classic French, Merlot-driven Bordeaux wine, medium-bodied with aromas of black currant and plums.” RMB 135 makes this an easy upgrade.
IYG (Impress Your Guests) high-value vintages:
Masüger raves about her final choice, Oscar. “My most favorite pick from our selection is this rich Spanish beauty. Oscar is a Tempranillo/Graciano blend, matured in French and Hungarian barrels for at least 24 months.” RMB 589
“Champagne goes with almost everything, it adds a festival atmosphere to any occasion,” Jacquelin told us. “1996 is an excellent vintage, and Dom Perignon, the world’s original Champagne, is arguably the best 1996 Champagne on the market. It is rated 98 points by Robert Parker and has numerous accolades.” It will cost you though. The market price in China is RMB 5,000-RMB 6,000
There is still time to place an order before Turkey Day. Scan the QR codes below to get your holiday vino needs met.
KEEP READING: Restaurant Quality Pumpkin Pie at Home, Courtesy of Hotel Jen’s Bakers
Images: Josephine, Cheers Wine
