Best Wine to Pair with Thanksgiving

Classic roast turkey is the star of the Thanksgiving table, featuring mild, succulent meat that pairs well with both red and white wines. Pinot Noir offers bright red fruit flavors and gentle tannins that enhance the turkey without overpowering it, while a Riesling—especially off-dry—provides lively acidity and a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors and complement side dishes like cranberry sauce.

Savory stuffing loaded with herbs and rich, velvety gravy call for wines that can match their depth. An oaked Chardonnay brings notes of baked apple, vanilla, and creaminess that mirror the richness of the stuffing and gravy, while a Beaujolais (made from Gamay grapes) delivers juicy red fruit and a refreshing finish to cut through hearty textures.

The sweet-tart flavors of cranberry sauce and a medley of vegetable sides are complemented by aromatic whites and fruit-driven reds. Gewürztraminer stands out with floral, spicy notes and a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with tangy sides. For a red option, Zinfandel brings bold berry flavors and a touch of spice that highlight both the sweetness and the earthiness of traditional sides.

Creamy mashed potatoes and roasted root vegetables benefit from wines with bright acidity and soft tannins. Sauvignon Blanc offers zesty citrus and herbal notes that lift these comforting dishes, while a smooth, fruit-forward Merlot provides enough body and ripe plum flavors to complement the savory, buttery textures.

No Thanksgiving is complete without dessert, and pumpkin pie calls for a touch of sweetness in your glass. Moscato d’Asti is lightly sparkling and delicately sweet, making it a refreshing pairing with spiced pies and creamy desserts. For a richer option, Late Harvest Riesling delivers honeyed flavors and vibrant acidity to balance out the sweetness of holiday treats.

• Consider the variety – Thanksgiving features a wide range of flavors, so choose versatile wines like Riesling and Pinot Noir to accommodate different dishes.
• Balance richness – Match richer dishes with wines that have the body to stand up to them, like oaked Chardonnay or Merlot, to enhance their savory qualities.
• Complement sweetness – Dessert wines like Moscato d’Asti and Late Harvest Riesling pair well with the sweet and spicy notes of pumpkin pie and other holiday desserts.
• Enhance flavors – Use wines with bright acidity, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to lift and refresh the palate between bites of creamy or heavy dishes.