Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching, and with it the time of year when Holiday meals abound. As the weather cools down, nothing can warm you up better than a fresh roasted turkey or chicken, right out of the oven. And, wouldn't you know, Oregon's wineries have just the thing to pair up against that bird: Pinot Noir.  
 
With its lush, fruity aromas and complex structure, Pinot Noir complements most any holiday dish. And yet, paired up against turkey, chicken, or duck, it's like nothing else.  
 
Scientifically, there is a reason for this. The proteins and fats found in poultry and fowl are compatible with the chemicals found in the wine. The acids help break down the fats, converting more flavors and helping balance out the palate, while not adversely affecting the proteins in the meat.  
 
Cabernet Sauvignon, on the other hand, does not pair so well with some game, specifically turkey. Its acids cause the proteins in the turkey to bind up and create a bit of a rough, gritty mouthfeel if you drink it while eating the bird. But Pinot Noir? Smooth sailing all the way.  
 
We have some recommendations for your consideration. Try to avoid a heavy, "cherry bomb" Pinot with your meal. You will want a somewhat lighter, more traditional (French) style of Pinot Noir. This involves a little less alcohol level (below 13%), lighter oak (less than 9 months aged) and a slightly lower pH (about 3.7) than is found with many of the big, bold Pinots.  
 
 
 
To that end, look for Pinot Noirs from Willamette Valley Vineyards, Cooper Mountain Vineyards, AtoZ Wineworks, Rex Hill Vineyards (now owned by AtoZ but still producing its own brand), and Bridgeview Vineyards.  
 
If your meal is pushing the envelope on the rich and spicy end of things (such as a bird with a healthy dose of seasonings) you could consider a fuller-bodied Pinot such as from Chehalem, Oswego Hills Winery, Tyee Wine Cellars, Stag Hollow, and Elk Cove.  
 
These are simply rough guidelines, and we do not mean to imply that one winery produces wines in a certain style that is better than another winery. Simply, we are saying that in recent vintages the wineries above stand out in our minds as producing some very good wines on the lighter and richer side, respectively.  
 
While Pinot Noir is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, know that what it really comes down to is celebrating the time of year, no matter where or with whom you might find yourself. Raise a glass, enjoy your meal, and marvel at the luscious gifts that are Oregon's fine wines.  
 
Santé!  
 
David Anderson