Orofino Red Bridge Merlot 2009, Okanagan Valley $29.99
Save the cabernet sauvignon for prime rib another day, and pull out a merlot for Thanksgiving dinner, always a fairly rich meal. John and Virginia Weber produce their Red Bridge Merlot in a winery that's unique in Canada – it's made of straw bales, an eco-friendly construction material that reduces energy needs and keeps wine at cave-like temperatures despite the desert heat of the Similkameen Valley. Their well-rounded merlot has a rich colour and the red berry flavours taste like good grapes that were left alone. It goes well with most Thanksgiving dishes – from turkey and stuffing to savoury gravy to a sweet-tart cranberry sauce. It also pairs with pâtés, earthy mushroom preparations, pork or veal roasts, cheesy gratins and even mildly spiced curries and tandoori dishes. Available at private wine shops.
Kasey Wilson is food editor of Wine Access magazine and editor of Best Places Vancouver.