Thanksgiving dinner brings together an amazing mix of flavors—savory turkey, buttery mashed potatoes, tangy cranberry sauce, and sweet pumpkin pie—all on one table. With so many tastes and textures, choosing the right wine can seem tricky. But with a few expert tips from the Monthly Sommelier, you can easily find bottles that enhance your holiday feast and delight every guest at your table.
Before the main course, most Thanksgiving gatherings start with light appetizers like cheese boards, salads, or seafood bites. These early courses call for crisp, refreshing wines that wake up the palate.
Top picks:
Sparkling Wine or Champagne: Bubbles pair beautifully with creamy cheeses, nuts, and salty snacks.
Sauvignon Blanc: Its bright citrus and herbal notes go perfectly with salads and vegetable starters.
Pinot Grigio: Clean and balanced, it’s a versatile option that complements lighter dishes.
Turkey may be the star of Thanksgiving, but the side dishes often steal the show. With so many rich and flavorful elements, stuffing, gravy, and roasted vegetables—a well-chosen wine can tie everything together.
Top picks:
Pinot Noir: A Thanksgiving classic. Its soft tannins and red fruit notes work with both white and dark turkey meat.
Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay enhances creamy mashed potatoes, gravy, and roasted vegetables.
Zinfandel: Full-bodied and jammy, it adds depth to hearty sides and glazed turkey.
A plant-based Thanksgiving can be just as indulgent and flavorful as the traditional feast. The key is to choose wines that bring out the earthy and roasted qualities of vegetables and grains.
Top picks:
Grenache: Smooth and fruity, ideal for roasted root vegetables and mushroom-based dishes.
Dry Rosé: Offers balance and acidity that complement a mix of sweet and savory flavors.
Gewürztraminer: Aromatic and slightly spicy, it pairs beautifully with squash, lentils, and nut loaves.
After the feast, it’s time for dessert! From spiced pumpkin pie to rich pecan tart, dessert wines can enhance the sweetness and bring a touch of celebration to the end of the meal.
Top picks:
Moscato: Lightly sweet and bubbly—great for fruity or creamy desserts.
Port: Rich and bold, an ideal companion for pecan or chocolate desserts.
Late Harvest Riesling: Sweet but balanced, it pairs perfectly with pumpkin or apple pie.
Focus on balance: Rich foods pair best with wines that have good acidity to refresh the palate.
Match texture and intensity: Creamy dishes work well with smooth, round wines, while roasted or spiced foods shine with bold reds.
Offer variety: Provide at least one white and one red wine so guests can explore different combinations.
Relax and enjoy: The best pairings come from sharing good food, great wine, and even better company.
The right wine pairing can bring harmony to your Thanksgiving table, elevating every bite and sip. One thing is for sure, there’s a perfect bottle for every dish and every guest. Cheers to a delicious and unforgettable Thanksgiving!