What To Know
- These wines are a great choice for those who prefer a lighter-bodied wine with a bit of acidity to cut through the richness of the turkey.
- If you’re looking for a wine with a bit more body and structure, these medium-bodied wines with tannins will provide a nice balance to the savory flavors of the turkey.
- A classic red wine with full tannins and flavors of blackcurrant, plum, and cedar, Cabernet Sauvignon is a great choice for pairing with dark meat turkey.
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food. And what’s a Thanksgiving meal without a perfectly paired wine? With so many options available at the LCBO, choosing the best wine for turkey dinner can be a daunting task. But fear not! We’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the top wines that will elevate your Thanksgiving feast to the next level.
Wines with Light Body and Acidity
These wines are a great choice for those who prefer a lighter-bodied wine with a bit of acidity to cut through the richness of the turkey.
- Pinot Noir: This classic red wine is known for its light body, bright acidity, and flavors of cherry, raspberry, and spice. It pairs well with both white and dark meat turkey.
- Gamay: A lighter-bodied red wine from the Beaujolais region of France, Gamay has a fruity, slightly tart flavor profile that complements turkey dishes.
- Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp, refreshing white wine has high acidity and flavors of citrus, green apple, and herbs. It’s a great choice for pairing with white meat turkey.
Wines with Medium Body and Tannins
If you’re looking for a wine with a bit more body and structure, these medium-bodied wines with tannins will provide a nice balance to the savory flavors of the turkey.
- Chardonnay: A versatile white wine with a medium body and moderate acidity, Chardonnay can have flavors of apple, pear, citrus, and oak. It pairs well with both white and dark meat turkey.
- Zinfandel: A bold, fruity red wine from California, Zinfandel has medium tannins and flavors of blackberry, raspberry, and spice. It’s a great choice for pairing with roasted turkey.
- Merlot: A medium-bodied red wine with soft tannins, Merlot has flavors of plum, cherry, and chocolate. It’s a versatile wine that pairs well with both white and dark meat turkey.
Wines with Full Body and Robust Flavors
For those who prefer a full-bodied wine with rich, bold flavors, these wines will stand up to the hearty flavors of the turkey and stuffing.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: A classic red wine with full tannins and flavors of blackcurrant, plum, and cedar, Cabernet Sauvignon is a great choice for pairing with dark meat turkey.
- Syrah: Also known as Shiraz, Syrah is a full-bodied red wine with rich tannins and flavors of dark fruit, spice, and pepper. It pairs well with both white and dark meat turkey.
- Amarone della Valpolicella: A full-bodied red wine from Italy, Amarone is made from dried grapes, giving it a unique concentration of flavors and a high alcohol content. It’s a great choice for pairing with a rich, flavorful turkey dish.
Consider Your Side Dishes
When choosing a wine for turkey dinner, it’s important to consider the side dishes you’ll be serving. For example, if you’re serving a creamy mashed potato dish, a lighter-bodied wine with higher acidity, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir, will cut through the richness. If you’re serving a sweeter dish, such as glazed carrots, a sweeter wine, such as Riesling or Moscato d’Asti, will complement the flavors.
Don’t Forget Dessert
After a hearty Thanksgiving meal, a sweet dessert is the perfect way to end the evening. And just like with the main course, there are certain wines that pair well with different desserts. For example, a classic pumpkin pie pairs well with a sweet Riesling or a Moscato d’Asti. A chocolate cake goes well with a rich, bold red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah.
The Final Pour
Choosing the best wine for turkey dinner is a personal preference, but by following these guidelines, you’re sure to find a wine that will complement your meal and make your Thanksgiving celebration even more special.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: What is the best wine for white meat turkey?
A: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, or Chardonnay are all great choices for pairing with white meat turkey.
Q: What is the best wine for dark meat turkey?
A: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, or Zinfandel are all great choices for pairing with dark meat turkey.
Q: What is the best wine for a Thanksgiving meal with a variety of side dishes?
A: A versatile wine, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or Merlot, will pair well with a variety of side dishes.
Q: What is the best wine for dessert after a Thanksgiving meal?
A: A sweet Riesling, Moscato d’Asti, or a rich red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah, will all pair well with different desserts.
Q: How do I store wine for Thanksgiving dinner?
A: Store wine in a cool, dark place, such as a refrigerator or wine cellar. White wines and sparkling wines should be served chilled, while red wines should be served at room temperature.
