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thanksgiving

Paul Mathew Pinot Noir is one of our experts' picks for Thanksgiving wine.

The traditional Thanksgiving meal isn't normally on the menu year-round at most homes, and picking wine to match a turkey dinner and all the trimmings can be a challenge. We spoke to employees at three local wine shops to get their opinions on wines that would pair beautifully with the holiday spread. Their picks span the globe, but all three agree: avoid wines that are heavy, rich, or tannic, and look for clean flavors and acidity to cut the heaviness of the meal.

Michael Barber, Domestic Wine Specialist, K&L Wines:

11/23/091:37 pm

An Amaro to End Thanksgiving Dinner

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Averna's old-school label pays tribute to its time-tested digestive power.

Overeating at Thanksgiving dinner is not only accepted, it's practically expected: after the dishes are done, the holiday requires very little from its participants other than a snooze and a half-hearted viewing of Midwestern NFL games. And as many veterans of Turkey Day have learned, the uncomfortable fullness of the huge meal and the added stupor of some good wine can turn into a gastrointestinal nightmare after the fourth quarter ends.

We leave the table decoration to you.
jesse757 @flickr

You missed the pre-orders on pies—not to mention the turkey. There's still hope for the semi-homemade cooks of San Francisco. Here's your plan. Now run with it.

11/18/095:08 pm

For all you vegetarians out there or for the folks who just want to party after a mellow Thanksgiving day, head downtown for the annual Meat is Murder tribute to The Smiths. This Charming Band will perform all of your Morrissey favorites along with music from The Mozzer and DJs Aaron and Nako.

11/18/094:44 pm

Thanksgiving Buffet at the Ritz-Carlton

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$98 ($49 per child)

If you're looking for a classy venue to spend your Thanksgiving and don't mind shelling out the dough, head up to the Ritz-Carlton for a bountiful buffet. Stuff your face (gracefully, of course) and let the live jazz trio entertain you. For a more complete list of where to eat out on Thanksgiving, check out Jessica Battilana's guide on 7x7.com.

11/18/094:24 pm

It's Thanksgiving and bets are that you already have your plans to eat in or out and just enjoy a relaxing day with family and friends. So, instead of trying to figure out what to do, just kick back and enjoy what 7x7 has to say about the holiday.

Compare your homemade pie with one of our favorites from High Time for Pie Time.

Hear chefs talk turkey in a Thanksgiving Tell-All.

11/15/097:00 am

High Time For Pie Time

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benimoto @ Flickr

If you are invited to a Thanksgiving dinner, it is best not to show up empty-handed. Wine is good, but pie—which spares the host from juggling oven space—is best. Here, the best place to pick one up. Mind the pre-order dates.

10/07/092:05 pm
Come cook a seasonal feast with produce grown within miles of Cavallo Point fresh from local farmers. Learn to make the perfect compliments to your holiday bird. After all the cooking is done, sit down and enjoy the meal you have created with wines to match.
09/15/094:36 pm

While you may be thinking about tomatoes, it’s (really) not too early to be considering your holiday feast, particularly if you want to get in on the action with a Marin Sun Farms heritage turkey. Order your Bourbon Red, Standard Brown or Narragansett by September 30 and save—it’s $6.59/lb. until then, $6.89 thereafter. Should this price give you momentary sticker shock remember: it’s a breed you’re saving, and that don’t come cheap. To order, click here.

11/21/081:15 pm
Only in San Francisco can you celebrate Thanksgiving "slow food" style. Executive Chef Paul Arenstam at the award-winning restaurant  has created a traditional feast to be served family style.