The best wine for Thanksgiving
Wondering what wine goes with turkey? Pairing wine with turkey really depends on the spices you choose as turkey meat is like a blank canvas; The turkey rub really dictates the flavor.
With a low fat content, turkey is a mildly flavored meat and pairs really well with a variety of wines.
Pair wine with Turkey
When making this list, we considered the most popular Thanksgiving recipes, turkey recipes, and flavor profiles, including our favorites: Smoked Turkey, Sous Vide Turkey Breast, Smoked Turkey Wings, Smoked Turkey Breast, and Instant Pot Turkey.
The best wine with Turkey tips
Curate a variety of wines versus sticking to one. Why? There are many parts to a turkey, each with a slightly different flavor than the other. A white turkey breast will not have the same deep flavor as dark meat.
Go with what you like. Since turkey has a very mild flavor, don’t overthink it. If it’s something you enjoy, go for it.
When shopping, keep in mind that the ideal varieties are a light or medium-bodied red wine or a full-bodied white wine. Think low-medium tannins with high acidity.
Red wine
Red Zinfandel
What wine should be served with turkey this year? Zinfandel is at the top of our list. Here’s why:
Zinfandel is a full-bodied fruity red wine with notes of black raspberry, cherry and pepper. It’s the perfect match for turkey, which can be a bit bland on its own. The bold flavors of Zinfandel will stand up to the rich taste of sauce and mashed potatoes, and the acidity will cut the fat in the dish.
Beaujolais
Beaujolais wine brings a selection of pairing variations due to its light body and high acidity. It plays very well with cranberry sauce and buttery toppings like mashed garlic.
Choose a Beaujolais Nouveau if you’re looking for a wine with a lower alcohol content. Avoid any hassles associated with alcohol-related holidays with this option.
Gamay
Gamay is a light-bodied red wine that tastes similar to Pinot Noir, but without the high price tag and astringency. This is a red option that all guests will enjoy.
The higher acidity and less tannin structure make it a simple Turkey Day wine option. Think sour flavors of red fruits like cherry, raspberry, cranberry and red currant.
Sangiovese
A delicate red is the perfect wine to pair with turkey. It has a subtle spice and flavor that doesn’t overwhelm the turkey and Thanksgiving extras.
If you’re looking for the perfect red wine to pair with your Thanksgiving rooster, look no further than Sangiovese. This delicate red has just the right amount of spice and flavor to complement your meal without overwhelming it.
So go ahead and pour yourself a glass (or two) of Sangiovese this holiday season. Your taste buds will thank you.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a great pairing with turkey or even double smoked pork. Pinot Noir has high acidity which makes it versatile for food pairing. Look for Old World regions for their earth tones, think mushrooms and sour cherries, let it pair with Thanksgiving food.
If you prefer a more juice-forward wine, go with options from the United States or Australia.
White wine
Dry Riesling
Riesling is our number 1 recommendation if you are looking for a variety that will suit many surfaces. It’s easy on the tongue and therefore enjoyable for all levels of wine drinkers.
Riesling pairs well with any Thanksgiving stew you can think of…from Crack Green Beans to Jiffy Corn Casserole. Riesling is a perfect pairing with its high acid and mineral qualities. It goes with classic herb turkey and Cajun turkey.
Viognier
Not a fan of oak bricks? Check out Viognier, a less popular white. Viognier’s stone fruit flavors and honey undertones are the perfect pairings with turkey. Look for Viognier’s from Australia, Northern Rhône France and South Africa.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a classic pairing with turkey due to its crisp acidity and mineral undertones. The Chardonnay compliments the traditional herbal notes used to season the bird. In fact, it would also work as a great cooking liquid for turkey.
Chardonnay Oak will bring out the complex textures of the turkey and enhance the delicate flavor. A fruity Chardonnay, think Abelly, offers a gentler finish.
Whichever spectrum you choose, Chardonnay makes a great pairing with India.
spark
We are a little biased; Any time is champagne time. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or celebrating the fact that it’s Friday, sparkling wine should be on the menu.
Champagne is a great match with turkey due to its high acidity and clean flavors. The clean flavors allow it to blend in with all the spices you use – from classic garlic and herbs to Cajun. There is no better match for smoked or fried turkey. Or for any extras for Thanksgiving.
Leave a comment and tell us what your favorite “best wine with turkey” option is!
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