When one thinks of wine for the Thanksgiving table, the first thought to come to mind is that of a rich, ruby-red Pinot Noir or a golden-hued Chardonnay. They’ve historically topped the list of go-to choices, nicely complementing the savory flavors of roast turkey and stuffing while balancing the sweet tang of cranberry sauce. Pinot Noir, with its soft tannins and red fruit notes, is in perfect harmony with the earthy, savory elements of the meal. At the same time, a rich Chardonnay can meld seamlessly with the creaminess of sides such as mashed potatoes and gravy.
Despite the apparent perfection of the traditional pairings, in recent years, there’s been a growing movement among wine lovers and even somms to break from tradition. Non-traditional Thanksgiving wine pairings, such as a zesty Sauvignon Blanc or a perky pink Rosé, have become increasingly popular. These alternatives can bring a refreshing twist, cutting through the meal’s heaviness and offering a delightful contrast to the well-established norms.
The Joy of Going Against the Grain
There’s a certain thrill in bending the rules, especially regarding wine. Sticking to the classics is, by all means, a safe bet; however, embracing your inner wine geek and pouring the unfamiliar at the Thanksgiving table can lead to pleasurable surprises. Perhaps you’ve discovered a new love for orange wines, or you may find that the fruity purple effervescence of a dry Lambrusco unexpectedly elevates your green bean casserole and sweet potato pie. The point is, Thanksgiving, at its core, is about coming together, sharing, and celebrating — and what better way to do that than by sharing a new wine experience?
In the bonus category, choosing non-traditional wines can be a conversation starter. It provides an opportunity to share the story behind the bottle, whether it’s a memory of a trip to an obscure Piemonte vineyard or a newfound passion for biodynamic wines. In the world of wine, the road less traveled can often lead to the most memorable experiences.
Crafting Your Own Custom Thanksgiving Pairings
Choosing the right wine for your Thanksgiving table doesn’t have to be a strictly by-the-book affair. Instead, consider the dominant flavors on your table. Is your turkey herb-encrusted or perhaps smoked? Are your sides spicy and citrusy, or are they brimming with umami? Answering a few questions like this can help guide your wine choices more accurately than simply sticking to conventional wisdom.
Trust your palate.
If you lean towards wines with high acidity, by all means, search out bottles that feature zippy crispness — like an Albariño or a Gruner Veltliner. These can be a wonderfully refreshing counterpoint to the rich heartiness of a Thanksgiving spread. Alternatively, if you prefer fuller-bodied wines, there’s no harm in going for a robust Garnacha or even an earthy, full-bodied Syrah. Experimentation is the key, and remember, the best wine for any occasion is the one you enjoy the most.
The one rule to follow: there are no rules!
Thanksgiving is a celebration of gratitude, family, and the bounty of the harvest. While there are traditional wines that have stood the test of time as accompaniments to this feast, the world of wine is vast and diverse. So this year, whether you’re raising a glass of that familiar Pinot Noir or toasting with an adventurous Jacquere, remember that the spirit of Thanksgiving lies not in following tradition to the letter; it’s all about coming together to share and savor the moment with family and friends.
Cheers to finding the perfect bottle — or bottles — to make your Thanksgiving memorable.