Thanksgiving goes far beyond a simple feast. It’s a time to gather, share, and express gratitude. And what better way to elevate this special moment than with a well-chosen glass of wine? But with so many dishes on the table, how do you pick the perfect wine for each occasion? This guide will help you navigate the world of wine and find the ideal pairings for your Thanksgiving dinner!
Pro Tip: A simple yet effective tip is to surprise your guests with a variety of wines—Old World and New World. It’s important to choose the right place to shop for wine. In Miami,Milam’s Markets offers a great selection of wines where you can find most of the wines recommended below. Another excellent option is The Fresh Market.
Wine: your best ally at the dinner table
Wine not only complements the flavors of the food but also enhances the overall dining experience. A good wine can transform a simple dish into a true delight. Plus, wine is a perfect companion for conversation, helping to create a festive and relaxed atmosphere.
The five must-have wine styles
The key to a successful dinner is variety. Remember: five wines are better than one. The ideal lineup includes:
- Sparkling wine: Start the celebration with a fresh, bubbly sparkling wine. Its acidity cleanses the palate and prepares it for the richer flavors to come.
- Herbaceous and spicy white wines: Wines like Sauvignon Blanc enhance the flavors of roasted vegetables and perfectly complement turkey.
- Rosés: Versatile and refreshing, rosés are an excellent option for those who prefer lighter wines. They pair wonderfully with salads and white meats.
- Light- to medium-bodied red wines: Pinot Noir, Gamay, and Grenache are ideal choices to pair with turkey and side dishes. Their soft tannins and fruity flavors complement these dishes beautifully.
- Aromatic/sweet white wines: For dessert lovers, sweet white wines like late-harvest Riesling or Gewürztraminer are perfect picks.
Practical tips for selecting and serving wine
- Temperature: Every wine has an ideal serving temperature. Whites are best served chilled, while reds are enjoyed at room temperature.
- Glassware: The shape of the glass influences how we perceive the wine’s aromas and flavors. Use appropriate glasses for each variety.
- Pairings: Experiment with different combinations and discover your favorite pairings. Don’t be afraid to try something new.
It’s always a good idea to have a few bottles of each on hand, especially if you’re expecting company. At the end of the day, holiday dinner wine pairing is all about personal preference. Below are some suggestions for the best red and white wines to consider when planning your Thanksgiving meal.
The best red & white wines for Thanksgiving turkey
Red varietals
- Pinot Noir:
- 9 Fairway Pinot Noir American Barrel Aged
- Flowers Pinot Noir Sonoma
- Cabernet:
- Casa Donoso Tequila Barrel Aged
- Faust Napa
- 9 Fairway Rum Barrel Aged
- Hospitality Series Cabernet Sauvignon
- Grand Barossa
- Malbec:
- Carelli, Mendoza
- Chaglasian, San Rafael, Mendoza
- 9 Fairway Malbec
White varietals
- Chardonnay:
- Sonoma Cutrer
- Buttery Chardonnay 9 Fairway
- Hospitality Series Chardonnay
- Louis Jadot, France
Casa Donoso Tequila Barrel Aged: an innovative proposal
To crown our guide, we present Casa Donoso Tequila Barrel Aged, a wine that combines innovation and tradition. This unique wine blends the complexity of a fine wine with the distinctive character of tequila barrels, offering a sensory experience that transcends the ordinary.
The aging process in barrels that previously held tequila imparts special notes that can perfectly complement the bold flavors of Thanksgiving dinner. Its aromatic profile and unique structure make it an extraordinary choice for those looking to surprise and delight their guests.
Pairing Suggestion: Pair Casa Donoso Tequila Barrel Aged with spiced turkey stuffing or a dark chocolate dessert.
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate with loved ones and enjoy great food and wine. With this guide, you’ll be able to select the perfect wines for every moment of your dinner, turning this celebration into an unforgettable experience. Cheers to gratitude and the joy of sharing a good glass of wine!
Cheers and Happy Thanksgiving!
Source: Wine Folly
