Tag: Fashion

Consider this your guide.

Perfect pairings.

Act fast.

Gift these to yourself or someone special.

Timeless and classic.

I’m pretty partial to it too.

I’m hooked.

Chances are, you’re juggling a lot this Thanksgiving—baking turkeys, making sides, and setting tables. Or maybe you’re not, and Thanksgiving consists mostly of kicking back and watching the game. Either way? You’re going to need wine. Stocking up the cellar for the holidays doesn’t need to be stressful.

“Buying wine for Thanksgiving is a great opportunity to have fun and be creative,” says Torrey Grant, wine appreciation professor at Syracuse University. “Thanksgiving has become all about the sides and as such, is a meal with tons of moving parts. I tell students all the time to just keep it light, bright and young.” His advice: low-alcohol wines with a bright, fresh acidity tend to be crowd-pleasers. “Unless you are in control of the table you may not know every dish that’s going to land on it so the idea is versatility.”

Looking for some more guidance? We asked some of the country’s top sommeliers what they’re pouring on Thanksgiving. 

E Guigal Château de Nalys Châteauneuf-des-Papes, $80                   

“This bottle of Châteauneuf-des-Papes is an intense blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, this red is regal, expressive, and endlessly complex, perfect to impress at a family gathering as it is impressive in price, approachable in flavor (notes of chocolate and dark berries for the Cab Sauv-obsessed, with a red fruit silkiness for the more light-bodied fans at the dinner table), and infallible in food pairing—whether you’re a turkey, steak, or grilled vegetable family.” –  Justin Parramore, Beverage Director, Level 3 Somm at Petit Pomeroy

Super Tuscan Petrolo Galatrona Toscana, $80

“As your entrusted sommelier, I advise you to bring Tuscan Merlot to the table this Thanksgiving. Still unfairly resented thanks to Paul Giamatti’s tirade in Sideways, it’s time Merlot steps back into the spotlight—like a young, pre-Jake Paul, Mike Tyson. Small, historic, and family run: Petrolo “Galatrona” 2019 is my favorite pick. Its ripeness and structure make it a perfect match for richer gobs of turkey sopped in gravy, while its Tuscan acidity effortlessly dances with Mom’s favorite cranberry sauce.  If you’re doing it right, go magnum—and keep it close.” — Nicholas Schulman, Wine Director, RPM Italian 

Evening Land Seven Springs Gamay Noir, $45 

“This Gamay brings cranberry zing, cherry juiciness, and a silky finish to the table—basically a love letter to your Thanksgiving feast. It’s vibrant enough to cut through rich dishes—like turkey with all the trimmings—but not so bold it bullies lighter sides like green beans or your aunt’s infamous salad. Strong vibes all around the table.” – Melissa Helfand, Director of Operations of The Duck & The Peach, Meli, La Collina, and The Wells in Washington DC

Grgich Hills Estate 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $73

“Ok, let’s not talk Turkey. If your main course is something heavier and you want to have a wine on the table for those types of dishes then Grgich HIlls Estate Napa Cab is stunning. Winemakers know that most wine lovers are buying their wines to open soon and with that in mind Grgich hills can be enjoyed today. It has the tannins to handle some high protein and fat dishes but enough acidity running through as to not weigh down your palate. Fresh is not always a word associated with big wines like this but in this case it fits beautifully!” — Grant

Bernabeleva’s 2022 ‘Viña Bonita’ Garnacha, $70                         

“This winery is technically in the Sierra de Gredos, a beautiful mountain range about an hour’s drive west of Madrid. This area is gaining a lot of praise for aromatic, deeply concentrated expressions of old vine Garnacha. Bernabeleva was originally founded in 1923 by a doctor from Madrid, Vincente Alvarez, who realized the potential for Garnacha. However, political instability following the Spanish Civil War kept his dream from being realized until his grandchildren, Juan Diez Bulnes and Santiago Matallana Bulnes, took over the 80 year old estate vineyards in 2006. Viña Bonita is their top bottling from a small single vineyard of granite. The wine shows crushed violets and roses with black strawberry, pomegranate, and fresh rosemary. I think this wine pairs perfectly with herbed Thanksgiving dressing and fowl, large or small!” — Jake Bennie, wine director at Sepia and Proxi.

Poderi di Carlo Orange Pinot Grigio, $20

“If I was to be a bit more daring around the holidays, I would delve into some skin contact wines, such as an Poderi di Carlo Orange Pinot Grigio from Friuli.” – Matthew Jacobson, Sommelier at Botanist at Fairmont Pacific Rim

Bōken Nana Sake, $67

Or, skip the wine altogether and opt for sake. “The higher acidity and sophisticated finish in Bōken Nana gives great strength to pair with Thanksgiving umami rich gravy. I imagine spooning over a perfectly roasted turkey and mashed potatoes, and can see Bōken Sake really harmonizing with holiday stuffing/dressing as well.” — Shiho Tanaka, Head Sommelier at the Michelin-starred Tsukimi NYC  

Peay Vineyards Les Titans, $65

“I know that the number one offering in the USA when it comes to Thanksgiving is Beaujolais but for me it’s the Peay Vineyards Les Titans, West Sonoma Coast Syrah. When thinking of California, you might think of warm, rich and decadent fruit and alcohol forward wines, but Peay estate is one of the coldest places on earth to produce fantastic Syrah, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. Wild red fruit, white pepper, lots of structure and freshness that pairs so well with all the fall spices.”  —Donald Clement, Born & Raised, San Diego    

Elena Walch Beyond the Clouds, $100

“This is a stunning white blend from Alto Adige. Produced by a fifth-generation family-owned estate, this wine is a grand cuvee produced in a limited number of bottles (around 3000) and a testament to the Walch family’s dedication to sustainable and terroir-driven practices. Aromas of pineapple, rose petals, and a creamy, elegant texture and refreshing vibrancy match light toast. Clean. Elegant. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and herbaceous stuffing, adding sophistication and joy to any festive gathering.” – Alberto Ghezzi , Lucciola’s Somm & Wine Director 

Maysara Jamsheed Pinot Noir 2015, $30

“This is my go-to Thanksgiving wine. I always keep this wine around at home or at the restaurant because it resonates on so many levels. It is made by the Momtazi family, who immigrated from Iran to escape the Islamic Revolution in the 1980s. Now, the three amazing daughters oversee the winemaking, utilizing sustainable, ancient practices that respect the provisions of the land. The winery is Demeter-certified biodynamic and uses all estate-grown fruit in McMinnville, Oregon. The family immigrant story really hits home for me, while the wine offers a depth of fruit that you want for turkey and all of the sides, especially ones with some spice. It has so many layers and so much depth with balanced acidity. It’s also a screw cap to help out all family members. A Thanksgiving Pinot that keeps on giving!” — Taylor Adams, General Manager and Wine Director at Saffron in New Orleans.

LaPostolle Grand Selection Carmenere, $20

“Thanksgiving dinner can offer so many different directions for wine, from high acid bright Pinot Noir to deep, rich Malbec and even a lush plush Chardonnay. The possibilities are endless! However, we always appreciate opening someone’s eyes to something new, that is why my current favorite Thanksgiving wine is Carmenere from Chile. Think of Carmenere as Merlot’s cool mysterious cousin who studied abroad. Carmenere has beautiful rich dark fruit qualities and plush tannins that won’t fight with food, but still can cut through all that turkey, gravy and mashed potatoes.” — Alex Cuper, Wine Director at El Che Steakhouse & Bar and Brasero

Valentini Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo, $123“If price is no object, then the Valentini Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo 2018 is sure to get your in-laws back in your good graces. Produced by the winery of the legendary Edoardo Valentini, this is traditional Italian winemaking at its finest. A deeper and more intense ‘rosato’ style wine made with Montepulciano grapes, this wine offers fresh red cherry note, complemented by balanced tannins and a savoury herbaceous. And while this wine can elevate the richness of a turkey gravy and balance the tart astringency of cranberries, it can also be a gift that keeps on giving—cellaring it for another occasion will only improve its quality.” — Joshua Mott (Azura, Osteria Scossa, Red Eye Diner, Her Father’s Cider Bar, Aphrodite’s Taverna)

Mersel Wine ‘Lebnani Ahmar’ Cinsault, $25

“Cinsault is possibly the most important French import grape in the Middle East, grown throughout Lebanon, Israel, Morocco and Algeria. Here, Eddie Chime at Mersel Wine is using fruit from young Bekka Valley vines to produce a natural expression of Cinsault that benefits from carbonic maceration [the same technique that Beaujolais producers follow] and malolactic fermentation. Meaty and spicy with dark brambly fruit, opening to violet and bright acidity, finishing with just a kiss of smoke. Pairs well with BBQ.” – Scott Stroemer, Beverage Director, at Michelin-starred Galit 

Chapoutier Petite Ruche Syrah, $29

“It can be difficult to find a wine that pairs well with the buttery mashed potatoes, rich cranberry sauces, green bean casseroles and other delicious, simple dishes that we love on a Thanksgiving spread. I like this syrah from the Rhône Valley (specifically the Crozes-Hermitage AOC) because it’s medium bodied, firm and savory. With aromas of smoke, grilled meat and peppercorn, it’s the perfect complement to the full cornucopia of Thanksgiving flavors.” — Ben Zuba, Wine Director at Rare Society 

Il Sasso Valpolicella Superiore, $43

“My perfect Thanksgiving wine is a fruit driven red wine with fresh acidity and low tannin.  There has been a renaissance in the Veneto with a new generation making exceptionally delicious red and white wines.  I am particularly fond of the wines of Il Sasso—his Valpolicella Superiore is bright and perfumed with notes of black cherry, preserved strawberry and violets. It works with everything on your Thanksgiving table but can play off the sweetness of cranberry and the savoriness of stuffing.” — Jason Alexander, wine director of Che Fico, Che Fico Pizzeria, and Che Fico Parco Menlo

Rootdown Winery Riesling, $34       

“For this year’s Thanksgiving dinner, I am reaching for a riesling. It is the perfect pairing for a turkey feast. I am currently obsessed with Rootdown Winery’s Riesling from Napa. Rootdown Winery is a hidden gem in California’s wine landscape, quietly crafting wines that tell the story of the soil with purity and finesse.“ – Scott Deardorff, Juniper & Ivy

Raventos i Blanc de Nit, $18

“Originating from Catalonia, Spain, this sparkling wine boasts a rich family legacy of fine winemaking. Juicy and refreshing, it’s an affordable delight perfect for the season, making it a wonderful complement to Thanksgiving feasts with its vibrant bubbles and crisp, balanced flavor.” – Kisong Mun, sommelier at The Dearborn Chicago

2021 Ehlers Estate 1886 Cabernet Sauvignon, $160

“When I was first starting out as a somm, the appeal of this wine would be the dark, brooding almost muscular fruit at the opening when you drink this Napa Cabernet. Now it’s the finesse that frames the wine that holds the most appeal for me. A wine that stands up to heartier Thanksgiving dishes like Prime Rib or Lamb Rack has to have layers of complexity as well. Ehlers 1886 Cabernet is a great reminder of not only the power that Napa can produce but also the length and freshness found in the best Cabernet grown there.” — Grant

Clement & Florian Berthier L’Instant Pinot Noir, $19 “

Primarily Pinot Noir, with a splash of Gamay to add a subtle spice that perfectly complements the rich fruitiness of the Pinot Noir. This elegant, inexpensive wine is an ideal choice for Thanksgiving, offering a harmonious balance of bright red fruit and gentle spice that pairs beautifully with a variety of traditional holiday dishes, from roasted turkey to glazed ham and even savory stuffing.” — Amanda Fladung, manager ofFarm Bar Lakeview

In a crowded market for Black Friday deals and steals, a few exceptions tend to stand out in rather eye-catching fashion. And for rugged menswear, classic flannel shirting, tough waxed jackets, richly crafted leather boots, EDC gear and much more, Huckberry‘s offerings are all killer, no filler.

Huckberry’s Black Friday sale, running now through Cyber Monday, offers some of the year’s best discounts on covetable gear, including Pedro Pascal’s favorite trucker jacket, winter travel essentials and practically anything else you can dream up. Here are the picks we’ve got on our wish list right now.

Relwen Quilted Flannel Shirt

Take your traditional flannel shirt, a must-have in brisk weather, and then turn it into something else entirely with a super-warm quilted lining. That’s what heritage-inspired Relwen did, and the results are infinitely wearable for frigid winter days. $161, was $248

Flint and Tinder Boiled Wool Chore Blazer

Flint and Tinder, the flagship in-house line at Huckberry, boasts a healthy respect for Americana classics, all done with a twist. This cozy, handsome piece blends the utility of a chore coat with a traditional wool blazer, and it’s about as versatile a sportcoat hybrid as it gets. $202, was $238

Rhodes Footwear Blake Chelsea Boots

Part work boot, part classic Chelsea boot, these wedge-sole boots manage to toe the line between tough and stylish. Supple leather will take on its own patina over time, whether you wear these for riding or for winter bar-hopping. $187, was $220

Flint and Tinder Wool-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket

True to form, Huckberry offers up savings on a variation of its best-selling style of all-time, the Waxed Trucker Jacket from Flint and Tinder. This option is lined in wool for a cozy, burly, ready-for-any-weather finish. $304, was $358

Huckberry x GORUCK GR1 Slick Backpack

Huckberry gear is tailor-made for adventure, ready to go far afield and take on just about any challenge. It’s a lofty goal, and that’s the same aim as everyday carry gear purveyors GORUCK. The two joined forces on this stealthy backpack, which boasts tons of hidden pockets and a highly durable design. $293, was $345

Greys Wool Slipper Boots

A soft wool exterior meets the durability of a stylish, contrasting rubber outsole in these cleverly designed slipper boots, now 40 percent off. Rich leather detailing upgrades these beyond those old slippers you’ve had for years. $70, was $118

Give’r Classic Gloves (Huckberry Exclusive)

The toughest of outdoor jobs this winter (and beyond) call for the toughest of gear, and these Give’r gloves are surely sturdy and determined (not to mention nicely discounted), with a waxed leather exterior and Thinsulate padding within for added warmth. $52, was $75

Wills Stretch Wool Blazer

The Huckberry team understands there’s a time to gear up and get down and dirty, and a time to kick back in refined style with an Old Fashioned while wearing a finely tailored blazer. This comfortable stretch wool jacket is best-suited for the second of those pursuits, and comes with matching trousers for all your holiday tailoring needs. $246, was $328

This past weekend the Formula One spectacle returned to Las Vegas for the sophomore run, and delivered for racing fans in every way possible. Mercedes-AMG made a fabulous return to the podium by making an unexpected one-two English punch with George Russell taking the checkered flag and his teammate, seven time world champion Lewis Hamilton, taking second. Ferrari also made headlines by claiming a podium spot with Spaniard Carlos Sainz coming in third. 

But the biggest winner of all was the undoubtedly Max Verstappen, who, with two races still remaining in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, claimed his fourth drivers’ championship. With the title he’s joined the evermore elevated ranks of Hall of Fame drivers with four championships that includes only Juan Manuel Fangio, Alain Prost, Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel and the aforementioned Hamilton. It’s fair to say the flying Dutchman has at least entered the GOAT conversation. 

“On the top-floor viewing area one can watch drivers sprint by on the second-longest straight of any F1 race in the world, screaming past at speeds north of 220 mph.”

It was a fabulous race from beginning to end featuring plenty of passing and shifting of positions, with Hamilton moving up from 10th while Russell dominated the entirety of the 50-lap race. Although Russell led from his pole position to the checkered flag on the Las Vegas Strip Circuit, second place was swapped no less ten times between five different drivers. 

We had the honor of watching the race from one of the best viewing situations in the city: the Bellagio Fountain Club. The purpose-built structure runs along in front of the famed Bellagio fountains, offering guests a truly peerless gastronomic experience you’re unlikely to find anywhere on the planet—be that at a sporting event or anywhere.

Leveraging MGM’s ridiculous pool of culinary talents, the Vegas consortium attracted a rogues’ gallery of Michelin-star hands including Mario Carbone, David Chang, Yannick Alleno, Alain Ducasse, Michael Mina, Bryan and Michael Voltaggio, Akira Back, Bricia Lopez, TJ Steele, Nancy Silverton, Christina Tosi, Olivia Tiedemann and more. Even Mark, Donnie and Paul Wahlberg passed out Wahlburgers. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nicolas Stecher (@nickstecher)

And these chefs did not just design the menu, they were there right in front of you cooking up their dishes firsthand for guests to enjoy. We had Wolfgang Puck serving us melt-in-your-mouth short rib, and at another point Japanese superstar Masaharu Morimoto carved up a tuna two feet in front of us with the help of the eminent Jean-Georges Vongerichten, whose Prime steakhouse we ate at the night before enjoying one of our best dining experiences of 2024. 

Witnessing John-George and the Iron Chef slicing up tuna and handing spoonfuls to us directly was a sashimi experience we will not soon forget. There was a caviar table with flutes of champagne we stopped at every time we passed by. Servers from Oysters XO walked around with tool belts filled with shellfish and a dozen different toppings, mignonettes and hot sauces. 

Of course the bars were also stocked with top-shelf spirits. Perhaps best of all, the top-floor staging area offered an extraordinary view of the drivers racing by on the second-longest straight of any F1 race in the world, screaming past at speeds north of 220 mph. All which helps justify the heady $14,000 price tag per seat. 

Naturally, there was a litany of celebrities attending as impressive as any A-list event. Luminaries seen strolling the Bellagio Fountain Club included Spirit of the Week subject Chris Stapleton, Aaron Paul, Seth Rogen, Coco Jones, Eva Longoria, Big Boi, Cedric The Entertainer, Canelo Alvarez, Rory Mcllroy, Eddie Huang, Jenny McCarthy, Jazz Chisholm, Mark Vientos, Starling Marte, Dexter Fowler, Francis Tiafoe and more.

The festivities were not just contained to Saturday night, of course, the entire weekend was overfilled with nonstop entertainment such as Dom Dolla hosting his Thursday night party at LIV in the Fontainebleau, before again performing above the pitlanes at ‘LIV on the Grid.’ On Friday night, Diplo and the Chainsmokers amped up the sold-out crowd at Maxim’s Ultimate Raceweek party at The Wynn’s XS nightclub.

“Chef John-George and the Iron Chef slicing up tuna and handing out spoonfuls was a sashimi experience we will not soon forget.”

But naturally the climax of the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend spectacle was the race itself, from the moment Boyz II Men sang the National Anthem to the closing ceremonies when Russell, Hamilton and Sainz all met at the Bellagio Fountain Club’s Winner’s Stage to celebrate their triumph—their likenesses projected on the iconic Fountains behind them, while exploding fireworks lit up the night sky. The pomp and ceremony, nevermind sound and fury seemed fitting for such an event. It’s safe to say we’re already booking hotels for 2025, and seeing if we can charm the MGM team for access to the Bellagio Fountain Club for another round.

Follow Deputy Editor Nicolas Stecher on Instagram at @nickstecher and @boozeoftheday.