Elevate Your Thanksgiving Celebration with This Surprising Red Wine Choice

While typical Thanksgiving wine recommendations often highlight staples like pinot noir and chardonnay, sommelier Alex Cuper has a more adventurous suggestion: carménère. Leading the wine programs at El Che Steakhouse & Bar and Brasero in Chicago, Cuper has curated an impressive selection of South American wines. His collection aims to showcase the rich diversity of wines from Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile, offering more than just the commonplace malbecs.

Cuper praises carménère, a signature Chilean red grape, for its velvety fruitiness on par with merlot, paired with a notable structure that harmonizes beautifully with traditional Thanksgiving dishes. The grape, once thought to be extinct in France, was rediscovered in Chile’s vineyards in the 1990s and uniquely balances accessibility with complexity.

For a standout choice, Cuper recommends Lapostolle Clos Apalta, a carménère-forward wine that also blends in cabernet sauvignon and merlot, offering elegance and depth for those willing to spend a bit more, generally priced above $100. This wine serves as a memorable centerpiece for the meal.

For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, Cuper suggests Lapostolle Petit Clos. Still carménère-driven but including cabernet sauvignon and merlot, this wine presents a classic Bordeaux blend flavor profile at a lower price point, making it an excellent choice without the financial guilt.

For guests with a taste for bold wines, Cuper has recommendations such as Montes Purple Angel, known for its rich notes of dark fruits and coffee, or more affordably, Montes Wings, which offers a similar style with less intensity.

The essence of Cuper’s recommendations isn’t just about the bottles themselves; they encourage a fresh perspective on holiday hosting. South American wines represent incredible value, yet they often go unrecognized at American tables. Hosting at home gives wine enthusiasts the chance to introduce unique varieties that can spark conversation and add character to the dining experience. This Thanksgiving, while others might stick to tradition, you could surprise your guests with a flavorful carménère, enriching the table’s offerings with unexpected depth and story.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!