Thanksgiving gives us the perfect excuse to try a variety of wines. Not only because we’ll probably be around some people who like to proclaim their outrageous opinions, but also because Thanksgiving foods are so contrasting there’s no one wine that pairs nicely with every single dish.
So gather around the table and let us take the guesswork out of what wines to bring to Thanksgiving dinner this year. These wines will add the perfect finishing touch.
Turkey - Pinot Noir & Chardonnay
Starting with the most traditional Thanksgiving meal, turkey. Generally, people will often serve Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with their Thanksgiving dinners and it’s because those two wines pair splendidly with turkey. Pinot Noir’s high acidity, light body, and low tannins make for a great compliment to a salty roasted turkey. Chardonnay, specifically an oaky Chardonnay, is another fantastic pairing with turkey. Its oaky notes bring out the complex flavor and textures of the turkey, as well as the herbs used in basting.
Mashed Potatoes & Gravy - Cabernet Sauvignon
When looking for the perfect wine to go with this starchy side, there’s no better choice than a Cabernet Sauvignon. A Cabernet has the body, structure, and flavor to stand up to this very rich dish. On top of that, its smooth tannins provide a tasteful relief to the heaviness of the potatoes and gravy.
Cranberry Sauce - Rosé
The go-to pairing for cranberry sauce has to be a Rosé. The notes of strawberry and, of course, cranberry make it a delicious match. It also won’t steal the show away from the cranberry sauce, the tangy acidity of both will compliment each other.
Macaroni and Cheese - Riesling
A Riesling, especially a sweet Riesling is a must-try with macaroni and cheese. The salty cheese balances the sweet wine and its acidity refreshes your palette, getting you ready for the next dish or for seconds of macaroni and cheese.
Stuffing - Gewürztraminer
Next up, stuffing! Stuffing is an integral part of Thanksgiving and no matter how you make your stuffing, a glass of Gewürztraminer will add the perfect touch of sweetness to this savory side. It's a complex wine but will provide a refreshing brightness next to the salty, herby stuffing.
Pumpkin Pie - Tawny Port
It’s time for many of our favorite parts, dessert, and the classic Thanksgiving dessert is obviously pumpkin pie. And why drink coffee with dessert when you can get a little tipsy...I mean...enjoy a Tawny Port instead? The sweetness mixed with the spices of a Tawny Port pairs flawlessly with the cinnamon and nutmeg spices of a pumpkin pie.
And there you have it! Experimenting with different wine pairings can make for such a fun activity this Thanksgiving. And whether you want to try something new or stick with the classics the wine aerator that works with any wine is our Aervana Select.