Wines for Thanksgiving

by Allisun Groat, Tastemaker in Residence & Wine Advisor

Thanksgiving wine tips:
When you’re pairing wine with a meal with lots of savory flavors, you need to pair with wines that won’t add to the chaos but instead, they'll bring their own life to the party. Pinot Noir and Riesling are the classic Thanksgiving dinner partners, but the following varietals are sure to impress family & friends! (And are easy to find!)

Whites:
Gewürztraminer - another noble grape of Alsace with similar traits to Riesling, these wines tend to start with a perception of sweet, bright lychee, mango and guava and finish dry. Another classic pairing. 

Chablis - unoaked Chardonnay from the northernmost region in Burgundy. These bright, zesty, lemony Chardonnay’s will bring the meal together rather than overpowering it with big oak. 

Rosé -try a Provence Rosé from Pinot Noir, Grenache or Cinsault grapes - dry and fruity and an excellent pairing with the big bird or better yet open it up way in advance while you’re counting your blessings and prepping the party before your guests arrive.

Reds:
Sangiovese - a bright fruity compliment to the meal - red currant, raspberry- try a classic Chianti or something a little outside the box from Umbria or Rosso di Montalcino. YUM. 

Gamay - way down south from Chablis, the Beaujolais region of Burgundy where they grow gamay is the perfect combination of fruit and earth that perfectly pair with the heartiest of thanksgiving meals. While the nouveau is fun and fresh, I opt for the more complex and refined Cru Beaujolais from Moulin à Vent or Côtes de Brouilly. You’ll be so happy you splurged.

This year, wrap it up with a bottle of late harvest Tokaji with your pie - and over the next few days with your leftovers. Sweet, fresh and just enough acidity to lift up those leftovers!