Thanksgiving is almost upon us, and despite it never getting quite the same fanfare and travel calamity as we see from our turkey-obsessed southern neighbours, it remains one of Canada’s more notable holidays. Whether you’re about to spend all day in the kitchen prepping sides and sauces galore, or if you’re headed to a (hopefully) lower-stress friendsgiving where each party assists with the meal prep, supplying a suitable holiday beverage is always a good move. After dropping in on a recent wine & spirits event in Toronto this past month, we’ve opted to compile a small compendium of our favourite new finds best suited to a evening with family (or one’s chosen family).
Orin Swift Papillon 2021
After cutting his teeth at Robert Mondavi winery in the late ’90s, Dave Phinney caught the winemaking bug to the point of no return. Opening the doors to Orin Swift in 1998 and by 2000 found himself with a runaway hit; the Prisoner was an instant cult classic in its early days, and set the tone for Phinney’s future in the California scene. His 2021 Papillon is one of several stellar reds on offer at present, blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot in a powerful yet elegantly balanced profile. Perhaps on the heavier end of the spectrum for a turkey pairing, but it’ll put a smile on the wine lovers at the table either way.
Grey Whale Gin
The story behind Grey Whale Gin is an interesting one, and one that (if we’re being honest) we may have written off as fluffy marketing if not for the opportunity to try it for ourselves. This gin has a rich and unique character, thanks to its unique selection of botanicals that are foraged along the migratory path of the California Gray Whale. In particular, the use of sea kelp and almonds give the gin a whisper of umami, and an almost creamy mouthfeel that you’d never expect from this kind of spirit. If there’s a desire for a cocktail or three before and/or after dinner, this would be our first move.
Poggio alle Gazze dell’Ornellaia 2021
To lead with a stellar red, one must follow it with an exceptional white, no? This class-leading Tuscan Sauvignon Blanc blend consistently pulls high rankings from wine reviewers globally, with a fresh notes of citrus, stone fruit, and mild floral notes rounding out its tasting profile. Strong enough to stand up to the traditional Thanksgiving fare, it’s another easy choice if you’re lucky enough to spot a bottle at your local wine supply.
Flor de Cana Centenario 12 Year Rum
As a secondary spirit and cocktail option, knowing gin isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, a smooth aged rum from Flor de Cana makes an easy alternate. Whether on its own, or mixed into an Old Fashioned, a Mojito, or even a riff on an Espresso Martini, this Nicaraguan rum is an easy-drinking crowd pleaser that deserves a spot in any home bar. It’s the world’s first spirit to be both carbon neutral and fair trade certified, and it’s also one of very few businesses in the category to remain family-owned after five generations. It’s one of those feel-good brands that still delivers on product quality, winning several international awards and recognitions along the way.
Alexander’s Crown Cabernet Sauvignon
Rightfully the pinnacle of the Rodney Strong portfolio (and a personal favourite of their winemaker), Alexander’s Crown spends 24 months in new French Oak barrels before heading off for bottling. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes for this small batch wine come from the top 15 acres of a single block of a vineyard — one that was established in 1971, and that is recognized as the first in the Alexander Valley to produce a single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Its 2019 vintage was an especially strong year, leading it to an exceptional 96-point score from Wine Enthusiast. Much like our other selects, this is a very special wine, perfectly suited to a special gathering.
Graham’s 10 Year Old Tawny Port
Capping off our list is a classic Tawny Port — an excellent way to toast your guests (or host) after a proper Thanksgiving feast. A touch of sweetness, and a flavourful body filled with notes of fig and apricot, a good Port is the dessert you didn’t know you needed. Should there be a call for a cigar after dinner, Graham’s 10 Year is robust enough to pair there as well. Much as we could also lean towards a good whisky in that scenario, the versatility and lower ABV of Port makes it more approachable to even those less prone to dabble in whiskies or other spirits.
