Thanksgiving is this coming Thursday. Like many american families, it’s a day for us to gather with family and friends, enjoy the tradition of turkey, too many side dishes and football. I forgot the pie; must have pie, or three!! On this day we slow down our busy lives, and give thanks for all that we hold dear and remember those no longer with us.

Since the holiday is not celebrated in Portugal, the first few years of being in America its meaning was not apparent to me. But like any good portuguese, any holiday that revolves around food, is my kind of holiday. I soon found myself researching its history, the why, the when and how.  As shocking as it may be to some, my first turkey was not memorable. Or maybe it was! I still recall it being semi-frozen the morning of since I didn’t realize it takes a week to defrost the dang thing; I might of forgotten the “bag” in the cavity too. I’ve since evolved! Fast forward to current times, I now take the holiday serious. I spend weeks planning the menu, table arrangements and the wine… Always the wine!

The wine takes center stage at our house, since it’s an opportunity to blend american traditions with my portuguese ones. This year, Rocim Amphora is my choice for the big day. Rocim is among the fine wine producers in Alentejo. We have visited the estate twice in past visits to Portugal and love all their wines. The red Amphora blend includes Aragonez, Trincadeira, Moreto and Tinta Grossa varieties. Everytime I open a bottle, it brings back memories of Alentejo. I’m very partial to Alentejo wines; not that I say no to any wine, but wines from the Alentejo region are my favorite!

So, in the end the important thing about Thanksgiving is being Thankful. Thankful for what we have. Thankful for our health, for the friends and family around us.  I’m thankful for all the opportunities I’ve been given. Mostly I’m thankful for my wonderful husband, for our sons and their significant others, for our wonderful family, and the amazing friends we call family!

Wishing you all the happiest of Thanksgivings. Cheers! Or as we say in the old country, Saude!