The choice of wine for Thanksgiving is essential to enhance the flavors of the characteristic dishes. Balancing robustness and softness is key, ensuring that the wine complements the various side dishes and stuffings.
Thanksgiving is a holiday that invites us to gather around the table with friends and family to give thanks and enjoy a hearty meal. One of the central elements of this celebration is the turkey, but we cannot overlook the stuffings and side dishes that enhance the culinary experience.
In terms of beverage preferences, wine leads among Americans during this celebration, which is characterized by its family atmosphere. Beer and whiskey follow on the list of preferences. Generally, men and women moderate their consumption compared to other holidays such as Halloween. In previous years, the average consumption was 3.1 drinks for men and 2.4 for women, with a low percentage of loss of consciousness: 3% of men and just over 2% of women experienced it.
To achieve a perfect pairing, it is essential to choose wines that enhance and complement the flavors of the typical dishes. Here are some recommendations, focusing on two outstanding grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
Cabernet Sauvignon HS: Power and harmony with the turkey
The Hospitality Series Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its power and structure, reveals itself as an ideal accompaniment to turkey at the Thanksgiving table. The soft meat of the turkey finds its complement in the firm tannins and intense fruity flavors of this robust red. Choosing a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon HS guarantees a harmonious balance of your dinner, enhancing the texture of the meat and elevating your preparations.
Recipe for Cabernet Sauvignon HS pairing: Roasted turkey with herbs
Ingredients for the turkey:
- Whole turkey
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
- Chopped garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Ingredients for the sweet potato mash:**
- Sweet potatoes
- Butter
- Milk
- Nutmeg
Preparation for the turkey:
- Rub the turkey with chopped garlic and sprinkle with fresh herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Roast in the oven until the skin is golden brown and the meat is juicy.
Preparation for the sweet potato mash:
- Cook the sweet potatoes until tender when pierced with a fork. Then peel them and place them in a large bowl.
- Add butter to taste for a creamy touch.
- Gradually pour in the milk while mixing to obtain the desired consistency.
- Grate fresh nutmeg over the mash and mix well.
Chardonnay HS: Elegance for stuffings and side dishes
For those who prefer the freshness and versatility of a white, the HS Chardonnay presents itself as the perfect choice. Its soft and balanced profile, soft tannins, and elegant and subtle toast, perfectly complement the stuffings and side dishes typical of Thanksgiving. From classic bread-based stuffings to more elaborate options with fruits and nuts, the HS Chardonnay acts as a refreshing counterpoint, cleansing the palate between each exquisite dish.
Recipe for Chardonnay HS pairing: Chicken breast stuffed with spinach and feta cheese with pear and walnut salad
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh spinach
- Crumble feta cheese
- Olive oil
- Chopped garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sliced pears
- Toasted walnuts
- Mixed greens for salad
- Honey and mustard vinaigrette
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 180°C.
- Sauté spinach with garlic in olive oil until wilted.
- Open the chicken breasts and stuff with sautéed spinach and feta cheese.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Preparation of the pear and walnut salad:
- Mix sliced pears, toasted walnuts, and mixed greens in a bowl.
- Dress with honey and mustard vinaigrette to taste.
In every sip and every bite, HS wines act as accomplices, enhancing not only the individual flavors of each dish, but also the shared experience around the table. This Thanksgiving, let’s raise a glass to gratitude and family. Cheers and may every toast be an unforgettable memory in this season of celebration and gratitude!