The Only Thanksgiving Wine Advice You Really Need
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What would Thanksgiving be without the annual post from The Wine Chef recommending bottles to go with turkey and all the trimmings?
Well, you’re not getting one. (Do I hear sighs of relief?) This year, my message is simple: drink what you like. There’s enough chaos in the kitchen without adding wine anxiety to the mix.
However, I know you’re wondering what I’ll be drinking. (Do I see eyes rolling?)
So here goes.
I’ll be reaching for wines that are light on their feet, especially since I won’t be feeling that way by the end of Thursday’s meal! I’m talking about wines with low alcohol, gentle tannins, plenty of flavor, and zippy, mouthwatering acidity that keeps you coming back for another bite…and another sip.
I’ll be happy with crisp whites to cut through all the rich food, like Albariño or even something with a bit more body yet still racy (wine lingo for acidic), like a dry Riesling. For reds, I’m dreaming of Cabernet Franc, Gamay, Pinot Noir, or Sangiovese for something savory and herb-friendly that never overpowers the plate. Rosé or orange wines are two other great options—both able to bridge the gap between whites and reds, with just enough structure to hold up to turkey and all the sides. And of course, there’s always room for something sparkling since bubbles make any holiday feel a little more joyful.
But if you’d rather cozy up to the big Napa Cab Uncle Harry brought, who’s to say you won’t enjoy every drop? If it makes you happy, it’s the right wine for the day.
To round things out, here are some favorite Thanksgiving recipes from my own kitchen if you need a little inspiration while you’re pouring:
Cheers to eating well, drinking what you love, and being thankful. Happy Thanksgiving!
Here are a few of my Thanksgiving picks, left to right:
Bouchaine Napa Valley Las Brisas Riesling, Nicolas Feuillatte Rosé Champagne, Meinklang Mulatschak orange wine, Mont Bessay Cru Beaujolais (Gamay): En Bessay Juliénas and Le Vieux Bourg Moulin à Vent, New York State Cab Franc: Boundary Breaks from the Finger Lakes and Onabay Côt-Fermented from Long Island, Cristom Eileen Vineyard Pinot Noir Willamette Valley.
