Thanksgiving Wine Pairings

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, food! With a table full of roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, tangy cranberry sauce, and rich pies, finding the right wine to complement these flavors can take your meal to the next level. Whether hosting a grand Thanksgiving dinner or a more intimate gathering, choosing the right wine is essential for bringing out the best in each dish.

A Brief History of Thanksgiving and Wine

Thanksgiving, as we know it today, started with the Pilgrims in 1621. Though they didn't have access to the wines we enjoy today, they were accustomed to fermented drinks, as safe drinking water was scarce. Over time, wine found its place at the Thanksgiving table, becoming a staple in many American households.
Interestingly, vineyards were established in the U.S. shortly after European settlers arrived, and by the 1800s, wine was a popular choice for special occasions, including Thanksgiving. Today, it's common for hosts to carefully select wines to pair with the traditional Thanksgiving meal, adding a touch of sophistication to the holiday.

Wine Pairings for Classic Thanksgiving Dishes

Thanksgiving meals are packed with diverse flavors, from savory to sweet, so finding wines that can enhance rather than overpower these dishes is essential. Here's a breakdown of the best wine pairings for your Thanksgiving favorites.

• Roasted Turkey

Turkey, with its mild flavor and lean meat, pairs well with white and red wines, offering flexibility based on your preferences. For white wine lovers, an oaked Chardonnay is a classic pairing. Its rich, buttery notes complement the savory, roasted flavors of turkey, while the bright acidity balances the richness of the sides. If you prefer red wine, Pinot Noir is a fantastic choice. With its light body, red fruit flavors, and subtle earthiness, it pairs beautifully with turkey and traditional herb-filled stuffing.

CRESCENDO 22.25 OZ RED WINE GLASS

 

• Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

Mashed potatoes with gravy are rich and creamy, so you'll want a wine with enough acidity to cut through the heaviness. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, with its zesty citrus and herbal notes, pairs well with the buttery texture of mashed potatoes. Its acidity keeps your palate refreshed between bites. For something more celebratory, try Champagne or another sparkling wine. The bubbles and bright acidity cleanse the palate and add a festive flair to your meal.

TALISMANO 13.5 OZ SPARKLING WINE GLASS

 

• Sweet Potatoes

Whether your sweet potatoes are roasted, mashed, or baked into a casserole, their natural sweetness pairs well with certain wines, an aromatic Gewürztraminer works wonderfully with the spiced, sweet flavors of sweet potatoes. Its lychee, honey, and spice notes mirror the warmth of cinnamon or nutmeg often used in this dish. For something richer, a Viognier with its full-bodied, stone-fruit flavors enhances the creaminess of sweet potatoes, creating a lush pairing.

OPTICA 15.25 OZ STEMLESS GLASS

 

• Pumpkin Pie

A slice of spiced pumpkin pie is the perfect way to end your Thanksgiving meal, and the right wine can make it even more indulgent. A late harvest Riesling, with its sweetness and crisp acidity, balances pumpkin pie's rich spices and creaminess, offering a harmonious pairing. For a more decadent option, a Sauternes brings honeyed apricot flavors that complement the pie's warmth and sweetness, making for a luxurious finale.

CRESCENDO 12.75 OZ CHARDONNAY GLASS

 

As you gather around the table, remember that Thanksgiving is about sharing, enjoying, and celebrating abundant food and drink. So raise a glass, toast to family and friends, and savor the perfect marriage of wine and food this holiday. Cheers to a memorable Thanksgiving!