It's that time of the year again - Thanksgiving! A time when family and friends come together to give thanks and enjoy copious amounts of comfort food. The centerpiece of Thanksgiving dinner is, of course, the turkey, but what's a great turkey dinner without the perfect wine pairing? Fear not, because in this post, we will be discussing the best wine pairings for a delicious Thanksgiving spread.
Sparkling Wine - Kick off your Thanksgiving meal on a celebratory note with a glass of bubbles! Sparkling wine pairs incredibly well with the salty and crispy flavors that come with the appetizer course. The acidity in the wine also helps to cleanse your palate and prep it for the rest of the meal. Our recommendation - a dry Brut or a crisp Prosecco.
Pinot Noir - A Thanksgiving staple, Pinot Noir is a versatile wine that can pair well with the main course. This light to medium-bodied wine complements the flavors of the turkey and stuffing without overpowering them. For a slightly sweeter note, pair it with cranberry sauce. Our recommendation - a rich and fruit-forward California Pinot Noir.
Chardonnay - If you're not a fan of red wine, Chardonnay can be the perfect pairing for your Thanksgiving meal. This white wine is a great match for the side dishes, such as sweet potatoes and green bean casserole. A full-bodied Chardonnay can hold up to the rich flavors of these dishes and add a creamy finish. Our recommendation - a buttery and oaky Napa Valley Chardonnay.
Beaujolais - Another red wine that pairs well with the Thanksgiving feast is a Beaujolais. This light wine is made from Gamay grapes and has a fruity and floral aroma. Its low tannin levels make it an excellent companion to the turkey, and it won't overpower the flavors of your side dishes. Our recommendation - a Beaujolais Nouveau, or a Cru Beaujolais.
Riesling - Last but not least, if sweetness and acidity are your preference, then Riesling is the way to go. This German wine is perfect for balancing the richness of Thanksgiving dinner. Its fruity, floral, and aromatic notes can enhance the flavors of the side dishes and desserts. Our recommendation - a crisp and refreshing German Riesling.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to wine pairing for Thanksgiving dinner. Find the wines that best complement the flavors of your dishes, and don't be afraid to mix it up. Try a few different wines and see what works best for you. Whatever wines you choose, remember that Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy good food, good wine, and good company. Cheers to a happy and delicious Thanksgiving!