McManis Family Vineyards, California (United States) Pinot Noir 2008

Sometimes you don’t want to spend $15 on wine.  Unfortunately, the $12-and-under category in U.S.  domestic wines is dominated by corporations which do a competent job, but somehow don’t seem Thanksgiving-worthy.  This is a family-run business founded around a giant Chardonnay vineyard in River Junction.  The McManises are still farmers, and they deliver fair value for money.  This isn’t a single vineyard Pinot, but in this price range it’s hard to beat, with generous cherry flavor, medium body and enough acidity to go with a meal.