Choosing wine for Thanksgiving does not need to be overwhelming. Thanksgiving is all about spending time with loved wines and having a great time together.
To pick wine the first consideration should be: what kind of wine do you and your guests enjoy? I always try to think about who will be at a dinner when I select wines to share. Does your aunt like sparkling wine, does your nephew like sweet wine, does your partner like big bold red wines?
Once you have an idea of the direction of wines it is time to consider how these wines pair with the menu.
Maybe grab a sparkling wine if you will have cheese as an appetizer. It is a fun way to start a party. I really like a rose sparkling wine for Thanksgiving, but you select the right one for you and the other adults at the party. If no one likes sparkling, then maybe start with a crisp white like a Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc.
Once you are moving on the the feast it is generally time to plan on fuller bodied whites, and red wines.
Turkey is the traditional protein for Thanksgiving dinner and it can be a little delicately flavored. A Chardonnay works really well here. The pear/apple flavors commonly found in Chardonnay will evoke that fall feeling. If you enjoy it, then opt for a buttery Chardonnay. If you are wanting a red wine then consider a Pinot Noir. Pinot Noir is a lighter bodied red and is more likely to pair well than a more full bodied red. The cherry character that is typical of Pinot Noir will work really well with the turkey, and it will also be an added berry character like the cranberry sauce.
Mashed potatoes would pair really well with a buttery chardonnay.
Stuffing would work great with a Viognier.
Green bean casserole would be great with a Chardonnay.
Sweet potato casserole would be nice with a Reisling.
A mushroom heavy dish pairs great with an earthy Pinot Noir.
Roasted brussel sprouts would go really well with a Nero D’Avola.
With all of that said – drink the wine that you love because Thanksgiving is all about sharing the food and drink that you enjoy with the people you care the most about.
Happy Thanksgiving!!