While traditional Thanksgiving wine guides often highlight celebrated options like pinot noir and chardonnay, sommelier Alex Cuper suggests considering carménère, a lesser-known varietal from South America. As the wine curator at El Che Steakhouse & Bar and Brasero in Chicago, Cuper has curated an impressive collection of South American wines that invites diners to rethink their choices.

Cuper describes carménère as having a velvety fruit character similar to merlot but with more structure, making it a fitting companion for a Thanksgiving meal that includes turkey, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and rich gravy. Once thought to be extinct in France, carménère was rediscovered in Chile in the 1990s and has emerged as a signature red grape of the region.

For a notable centerpiece, Cuper recommends the Lapostolle Clos Apalta, a thoughtfully crafted wine that blends carménère with cabernet sauvignon and merlot, offering elegance and rich dark fruit that pairs well with various Thanksgiving flavors. Priced over $100, it is a conversation starter that lingers in the memory long after the meal.

An alternative that offers great value is Lapostolle Petit Clos, which combines carménère with cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and petit verdot. At about half the price of Clos Apalta, it provides plenty of flavor while being accessible for those conscious of their budgets.

Cuper also suggests Montes Purple Angel for those who enjoy bold wines, marked by rich flavors of red and black fruits with chocolate notes and plush tannins. For a more budget-friendly option, Montes Wings delivers similar attributes at a lower price point.

Cuper’s recommendations highlight that South American wines, while often underappreciated, can offer exceptional quality and value, encouraging hosts to share unique stories about their selections during holiday gatherings. This Thanksgiving, consider embracing carménère for a wine that not only complements the meal but also adds a touch of adventure to the dining experience.