On Thanksgiving, it's good to be all over the map

— -- The cornucopia of flavors that make the Thanksgiving feast so cherished also make it the simplest meal for which to choose wine. And if it's your turn to host the holiday, that's a true blessing.

When you have bland turkey, salty ham, sweet yams, tart cranberries and earthy Brussels sprouts sharing the spotlight, no one wine, not even the often-suggested Rosés, Pinot Noirs and Gewürztraminers, will work with everything, so it's not worth fretting about. Provide a variety of beverages, including wines, and you'll cover most of the bases.

Focus on a theme instead of flavors. In past years, I've suggested picking wines with a personal connection or wines made in your home state. This year, why not honor the heritages of your family and your guests by inviting the world of wine to your table? There are so many fine and affordable bottles coming from so many spots on the globe that it should be fairly easy to make a meaningful connection.

With that in mind, here are some feast-worthy suggestions of types of wine from major wine-producing countries, along with some currently available bottles — my way of saying thanks to our brethren for sharing the bounty (look for the youngest vintage; retail prices may vary widely):

•Argentina. Torrontes is the hot new fresh and floral white, and Malbec is the sturdy red that is achieving world-class status. Michel Torino Don David Torrontes, $17; and Bodega Norton Malbec, $10.

•Australia. Rieslings from Eden Valley are vibrant and dry, and Grenaches are packed with bright, juicy fruit and a touch of earth. Peter Henschke Julius Riesling, $30; and Chateau Reynella "Basket Pressed" Grenache, $22.

•Chile. Sauvignon Blancs and Merlots are what Chile does best and represent great value. Veramonte Sauvignon Blanc Reserva, $10; and Casa Lapostolle Merlot, $11.

•France. Look to the Burgundy region for fresh-tasting Chablis and soft, fruity Beaujolais. Laroche Chablis, $20; and Joseph Drouhin Brouilly, Beaujolais, $17.

•Germany. Skip the reds and double up on the world's finest Rieslings, which range from bone-dry to super-sweet. 2 Brothers Riesling, $15; and Kurt Darting Dürkheimer Michelsberg Riesling Kabinett, $16.

•Greece. A renaissance has taken hold in Greece's wine industry, and you taste it in the light, refreshing whites and rich reds such as Xinomavro Boutari Kretikos White, $12; and Karydas Xinomavro, $16.

•Italy. Start the meal with a sparkling Prosecco and accompany the meat with a versatile red from Tuscany. Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva, $17; and Mionetto "II" Procecco, $10.

•New Zealand. Sauvignon Blancs offer vibrancy, and Pinot Noirs lend charm and cachet. Brancott Sauvignon Blanc, $10; and Villa Maria Private Bin Pinot Noir, $20.

•Portugal. Skip the wines and double up on the signature dessert wines. Churchill's 10 Year Old Tawny Port, $28; and W & J Graham's Fine Ruby Port, $19.

•South Africa. Chenin Blancs are delightful with turkey; smoky Pinotages are fine with heartier meats. Man Vintners Chenin Blanc, $7; and Fairview Pinotage, $15.

•Spain. Albariños are blessed with floral aromas; Tempranillos offer rich fruit and smooth texture. Martin Codax Albariño, $15; and Torres Coronas Tempranillo, $10.