Let's Talk Turkey....and Wine & More

Thanksgiving dinner is a culinary masterpiece; the centerpiece, the turkey, deserves a wine that perfectly complements its flavors. While the traditional pairing is Pinot Noir, many other options depend on the preparation and your personal preferences. When selecting the ideal wine for your Thanksgiving feast, let's explore key factors.

Sparkling Wine: A sparkling wine like Champagne or Prosecco is a festive way to start your Thanksgiving celebration. The bubbles cleanse the palate and prepare you for the flavors to come. A sparkling wine can also act as a mood enhancer, helping to calm your nerves for awkward family gatherings and facilitating conversation. Above all, the bubbles and effervescence of sparkling wine create a sense of excitement and celebration. It's a visual and auditory delight that adds to the festive ambiance.

One of my favorite sparkling finds is Crémant. Crémant is a sparkling wine produced using the same traditional method as Champagne without the Champagne price tag. Crémant can be blended with the traditional Champagne grape holy trinity: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, but depending on the region and blend, it may also include Chenin Blanc or Aligoté. Crémant is a versatile choice and can easily pair with a wide variety of cuisines and, most certainly, courses in your Thanksgiving feast. I almost always have a case on hand for this reason. It is also a great option for mimosas, if that is your thing, try making a festive one for the holiday: a cranberry pomegranate mimosa. 2 ounces Pama brand liqueur (pomegranate liquor), 2 ounces of cranberry juice and finish off with Crémant. If you want to get fancy, sugar the rim of the glass beforehand and finish with a pinch of pomegranate arils.

Appetizers: For cheeses, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will complement the creamy textures and tangy flavors of cheese. When it comes to crudités, A light and refreshing rosé or sparkling wine will pair well with fresh vegetables and dips. When it comes to charcuterie, you can pair it with various wines. A classic choice is Chianti, an Italian red wine known for its acidity and tannins. For a more adventurous pairing, consider Lambrusco, a sparkling red wine from Italy that offers a refreshing and bubbly contrast to the rich flavors of charcuterie. Other excellent options include Côtes du Rhône, Tempranillo, and Beaujolais, each with unique characteristics to complement the cured meats.

Main Course: Turkey, a versatile bird, can be paired with a variety of wines. For a classic pairing, opt for a Pinot Noir. Pinot Noir is a classic choice for turkey due to its medium-bodied character, red fruit flavors, and moderate tannins. It can complement the savory and slightly sweet flavors of turkey.

For a bolder flavor profile, consider Cabernet Sauvignon. Its higher tannins and darker fruit flavors can stand up to the richness of turkey, especially if it's roasted with herbs and spices. If your turkey is smoked or has a smoky flavor, Syrah is a great option. Its peppery and earthy notes can complement the smoky character of the meat.

If you are a die-hard white wine lover, consider Chardonnay, Viognier, and Riesling. Chardonnay is versatile and pairs well with turkey, given that they can be rich and buttery (Consider a California or Australian Chardonnay for these characteristics). Look for a Chardonnay with a medium-bodied character. Viognier is an aromatic white wine from France that can be a delicious pairing with turkey. Its floral and peachy flavors can complement the savory notes of the meat. Riesling can be a great option if you prefer a slightly sweeter white wine. Its acidity and residual sweetness can balance the richness of turkey.

Additionally, you may also consider the side dishes when choosing a wine. For example, if the stuffing is heavy on the butter, you may choose a fuller-bodied wine altogether. A fuller-bodied wine with higher alcohol content and tannins can help cut through the richness of the meal and stand up to the complex combinations of herbs and spices often found in Thanksgiving dishes. The best wine pairing for turkey dinner depends on the specific preparation and your preferences. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what you enjoy. I recommend having a few varietals on hand and giving your guests choices. It's also a fun way to experiment and have a conversation topic.

Dessert: One of the best ways to end the meal is with a fantastic dessert and a pairing to complement it. Pumpkin pie pairs well with a fortified wine like a port or sherry, while apple pie is complemented with a crisp and acidic white wine like a Riesling or Pinot Gris. If wines aren't on the dessert menu, consider diving into the liquor cabinet for ideas. 

For a pumpkin pie, try a bourbon, rye whiskey, or a Cognac. Choose Calvados (a French apple brandy) whiskey or rum for an apple pie. General tips for pairing spirits with dessert include considering the sweetness and the flavors. If the dessert is very sweet, choose a spirit with some acidity or bitterness to balance it out. Choose spirits that complement the flavors in the dessert. Feel free to try different combinations. These are just suggestions. The best way to find the perfect pairing is to experiment and discover what you enjoy.

With a little planning and a bit of experimentation, you can elevate your Thanksgiving feast with perfectly paired wines and spirits. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a casual wine drinker, there's a perfect match out there for every dish. So, gather your loved ones, indulge in delicious food, and raise a glass for a memorable Thanksgiving celebration.