Thanksgiving Wine Guide

It is almost that time of year again to prep the turkey and side dishes for Thanksgiving – but don’t forget about the wine! To alleviate some stress on what to bring or pair with your big meal, check out my top Thanksgiving wine suggestions!

Blanc de Blanc or Champagne 

Starting off with bubbles is the perfect introductory beverage. It can also be fun to start out with mimosas or other bubbly cocktails. One of my favorite fall cocktails is apple cider and prosecco with cinnamon sugar on the rim. Champagne can also be enjoyed throughout the meal, as it acts as a great palate cleanser. 

Sancerre or Sauvignon Blanc

If you aren’t the biggest red wine fan, or even if you are, having a white wine is a great option. Thanksgiving is already such a heavy meal, so having lighter wines in the mix will compliment everything nicely! Bringing a Sauvignon Blanc or Sancerre is perfect for those green sides like Brussels sprouts or green bean casserole. 

Chardonnay

There are many different forms of Chardonnay, but if your meal consists of warm bread rolls and mashed potatoes with butter, you have to incorporate a classic Chardonnay from Burgundy or Sonoma! The buttery mouthfeel in these Chardonnays are going to enhance the flavors of anything doughy or creamy on your Thanksgiving plate. 

Beaujolais 

Beaujolais is considered the perfect Thanksgiving wine. This lighter, fruity red will pair nicely with just about everything on your table. Beaujolais comes from France and is made from 100% Gamay. One of my favorite things about Beaujolais is how inexpensive it is! You can find these anywhere and for an excellent price. Since this wine doesn’t have a full body or too many tannins, it will be perfect with beets, cranberry sauce and turkey. 

For more info and Beaujolais recommendations, check out my Beaujolais mini series on instagram!

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is another great option because it is still in that light to medium body range. Younger Pinot Noirs will be very fruit forward but it can also have hints of clove and spice aromas. A consistently great region to buy Pinot Noir from is Willamette Valley in Oregon. A Pinot will pair nicely with the white or dark meat of the turkey. 

Zinfandel

If you have guests that typically love their darker, heavier reds, a Zinfandel is a great option as a Thanksgiving wine! With notes of blackberry, cinnamon, and sweet tobacco, this is also a great wine to have with dark meat turkey or end with and enjoy with dessert! Lodi, California is home to some of the best Zinfandel with great aging potential.

For fall meal inspiration, check out my easy fall recipe and wine pairings post!