Choosing the best wines for Thanksgiving largely depends on personal preferences and the variety of dishes you'll be serving. Since Thanksgiving often features a diverse range of flavors, from roasted turkey to savory sides and sweet desserts, it's a good idea to have a selection of wines that can complement a variety of tastes. Here are some versatile wine options that can pair well with Thanksgiving dinner:
White Wines:
- Chardonnay: A versatile white wine that can range from crisp and minerally to rich and buttery. It can complement a wide range of dishes, including turkey and creamy sauces.
- Riesling: Offers a range of sweetness levels, from dry to sweet. A slightly sweet Riesling can be a great match for spicy or tangy dishes, while a drier style can pair nicely with turkey and stuffing.
- Gewürztraminer: Known for its aromatic and spicy notes, Gewürztraminer can be a good match for flavorful and aromatic dishes like spiced stuffing or glazed ham.
- Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp and acidic wine can be a refreshing choice, especially for cutting through rich or creamy dishes.
Red Wines:
- Pinot Noir: Known for its versatility and light to medium body, Pinot Noir can complement a wide range of dishes, including turkey, ham, and even some vegetarian options.
- Grenache or GSM Blends (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre): These wines tend to have good acidity and fruity notes, making them versatile enough to pair with a variety of flavors.
- Zinfandel: A medium to full-bodied red with rich, jammy fruit flavors. It can pair well with the heartier elements of Thanksgiving dinner.
- Beaujolais Nouveau: A light and fruity red wine, Beaujolais Nouveau is released shortly before Thanksgiving and is known for its easy-drinking style.
Sparkling Wines:
- Champagne or Sparkling Wine: A versatile option that can complement a wide range of dishes. It's also great for toasting and celebration.
Dessert Wines:
- Late Harvest Riesling: A sweet and fruity option that can pair well with desserts like pies, tarts, and other sweets.
- Tawny Port: A fortified wine with nutty and caramelized flavors that can complement rich, nutty, or caramel-based desserts.
Rosé:
- A dry or slightly off-dry rosé can be a versatile option, offering a balance of red and white wine characteristics.
Tips:
- Offer Variety: Have a mix of red, white, and possibly a sparkling or rosé option to cater to different tastes.
- Consider Sweetness Levels: Consider the sweetness of the wine in relation to the sweetness of the dishes being served.
- Chill White and Sparkling Wines: Serve white and sparkling wines slightly chilled for optimal taste.
- Room Temperature for Reds: Serve red wines at room temperature or slightly below.
- Always have a Big Wine Glass from www.BigWineGlasses.com available for optimal tasting! Your guests need room to swirl and smell so that the wines you serve truly complement the meal.
Ultimately, the "best" wine for Thanksgiving is the one that you and your guests enjoy the most. Feel free to experiment and find what works best for your particular menu and preferences. The same goes for your Big Wine Glasses. They have been designed for different purposes, but at the end of the day it’s about your preference.