Thanksgiving is just around the corner, which means it’s time to start thinking about what wines to pour alongside the holiday meal. Personally, I’m thinking about drinking Champagne from start to finish. But there are plenty of other wonderful options, whether you’re hosting dinner or bringing a bottle to someone else’s table.
Turkey has a richer flavor and more texture than chicken, making it a little more versatile when it comes to wine pairings. When choosing a bottle, look for fresh fruit, lively acidity, and balanced structure. You want something that complements the meal without overpowering it.
Champagne
Let’s start with Champagne, my personal favorite. Bubbles are always a good idea, especially around the holidays. The acidity and freshness cut through richer dishes, buttery sides, and all those Thanksgiving favorites.
Taittinger Brut Réserve “La Française” Champagne is an elegant, well-structured option, with bright lemon notes, beautiful balance, and a lovely finish. At around $50 a bottle, it’s a wonderful choice for the holiday table.
Gamay
If you’re looking for something lighter and fruit-forward, Gamay is a great option. With its fresh red fruit, bright acidity, and easy-drinking style, it pairs beautifully with turkey and an assortment of Thanksgiving sides.
Pinot Noir
A classic Thanksgiving pairing you really can’t go wrong with. Pinot Noir is approachable, food-friendly, and versatile enough to complement everything from roasted turkey to cranberry sauce and mushroom stuffing.
Rosé
Don’t overlook rosé as the seasons change. The 2024 Domaine du Bagnol Cassis Rosé, a blend of 45% Grenache, 35% Cinsault, and 20% Mourvèdre, is a beautiful option for the holiday table. Aromas of citrus, strawberries, and red currants lead into a crisp palate with excellent texture. It’s refreshing, versatile, and a lovely pairing for Thanksgiving dinner.
Syrah for smoked turkey
If smoked turkey is on the menu, consider reaching for Syrah. Its darker fruit, savory character, and peppery notes work particularly well alongside the deeper, smoky flavors of the meat.
High-acid whites for fried turkey
For those taking the deep-fried turkey route, reach for something crisp and refreshing. Chablis or Riesling are both excellent choices. Their bright acidity and freshness help balance the richness of the crispy skin and fried meat.
At the end of the day, Thanksgiving is about gathering around the table, enjoying good food, and sharing a few great bottles. Don’t overthink it. Bring something you love, open something delicious, and enjoy the holiday!
PHS grad Kate Goldberg studied wine and viticulture at Cal Poly and currently works in the wine industry. All photos by Kate Goldberg.