A Guide to Holiday Pairing

Thanksgiving wine pairings worth considering.

Pinot Noir: An Elegant Thanksgiving Classic

There's a reason Pinot Noir is frequently recommended as one of the best red wines for Thanksgiving. Its delicate balance of bright acidity, expressive red fruit, and silky tannins makes it a natural companion to roasted turkey. Notes of cherry and raspberry beautifully complement savory herbs, while its refreshing acidity cuts through rich gravy and buttery side dishes. Pinot Noir is especially appealing alongside herb-roasted turkey, mushroom stuffing, and cranberry sauce, where its fruit character complements both savory and tart flavors.

Merlot: A Smooth and Savory Thanksgiving Pairing

For those who enjoy a richer red wine, Merlot offers a wonderful balance of fruit, structure, and softness. Known for its velvety texture, supple tannins, and inviting notes of plum, black cherry, and subtle spice, Merlot is a versatile companion to the heartier flavors of Thanksgiving dinner.

Its rounded character is particularly well suited to roasted turkey's flavorful dark meat, mushroom dishes, savory dressing, and roasted root vegetables. For guests who prefer a fuller-bodied red without overpowering the meal, Merlot brings warmth and depth to the Thanksgiving table.

Gewurztraminer: From Savory Herbs to Sweet Traditions

With its unmistakable aromatic character, Gewurztraminer brings something wonderfully distinctive to Thanksgiving wine pairings. Fragrant notes, expressive fruit, and warm spice make this varietal a natural companion to the holiday's abundance of flavors.

Dry Gewürztraminer offers an intriguing alternative to traditional Thanksgiving white wines. Its aromatic complexity and vibrant character complement herb-roasted turkey, sage-infused dressing, and savory dishes with a touch of spice.

For the sweeter side of Thanksgiving, Dolcino Gewurztraminer offers a delightful alternative. Its lush fruit character and gentle sweetness pair beautifully with glazed sweet potatoes, spiced squash, and fruit-forward dishes. Dolcino can also accompany lightly sweet, warmly spiced desserts, although richer pies may call for a sweeter dessert wine.

Discover more about this fascinating varietal in our Enchanting World of Gewürztraminer.

Pinot Bianco: A Refreshing Complement to Rich Flavors

For those seeking a crisp white wine for Thanksgiving dinner, Pinot Bianco is a wonderfully versatile choice. Known for its delicate orchard fruit, bright acidity, and refreshing character, this elegant varietal brings a welcome sense of freshness to the holiday table.

Its clean, lively profile complements roasted turkey and herb-seasoned dressing, while providing contrast to creamy mashed potatoes, buttery vegetables, and rich sauces. Pinot Bianco is particularly appealing when the menu includes a variety of savory dishes, allowing their individual flavors to shine.

Chardonnay: A Beautiful Match for the Holiday Table

Chardonnay is another Thanksgiving favorite, especially for those who appreciate a white wine with a little more body and texture. Its expressive fruit character and balanced richness make it a natural companion to roasted poultry, creamy potatoes, and savory holiday dishes.

A beautifully balanced Chardonnay, such as our Reserve Chardonnay, can complement the buttery, toasted flavors of Thanksgiving dinner while retaining the freshness needed to accompany a variety of dishes.