It’s that time of year! Fall is here along with all the goodness that goes with it, including changing leaves, bonfires, football, and holidays. Halloween will soon pass, and Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Whether you are hosting or bringing a side dish to another gathering, you must not forget about the inclusion of the perfect wine.

Different wines go well with turkey depending on how the turkey is prepared, what sides are served, and, of course, personal preference. The timing of the meal in terms of brunch, late afternoon, or an evening dinner can also play a role. Making the right wine selection can create the perfect pairing and delight your friends and family as they enjoy time with one another and give thanks. Here are some suggestions for the best wines for Thanksgiving to make your holiday extra special.

White Wine with White Meat

You have probably heard people say to pair white wine with white meat and white sauce. Whether or not you fall into this category, there are additional factors to consider in selecting the right white wine. Delectable whites for your 2019 Thanksgiving holiday include:

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is a medium-bodied wine with a clean finish. This “wild white” can have a variety of tastes and flavors depending upon the region in which the grape is grown. This, in addition to its herbaceous tones, sets it apart from other white wines and earns its name. Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with a traditional roasted turkey and all its sides. Whitehaven, JUSTIN, and Cakebread Cellars are options to try.

Sparkling Wine and Champagne

Sparkling wine can infuse flavor and run into a dry, humdrum turkey. Few plan for a dry turkey, but it is an all-too-common occurrence. The right sparkling wine or champagne can kick up the festivities, pair well with a variety of foods, and lessen the blow of dry, bland turkey. Options run the gamut in terms of price, and we have something for all budgets. Celene Brut Crémant de Bordeaux, Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut, and Larmandier-Bernier Latitude Extra Brut are nice options, each at a different price point.

Fun with Reds

Cranberry sauce is just one reason that red wine can be paired with your Thanksgiving turkey. The variety of flavors and types of side dishes, the time of day you enjoy your meal, and the potential citrus fruits and herbs used to season your turkey are additional reasons. You don’t have to worry about the propriety of serving red wines that go well with turkey, and sophisticated palettes will appreciate some of the possible pairings.

Pinot Noir

A pinot noir is a wonderful pairing with your Thanksgiving meal. They are lighter-bodied than a cabernet, which means they won’t overpower your main dish: turkey. The fruit notes give it a stylish flavor profile and make it a versatile partner for a wide variety of side dishes. Further, the slight, earthy taste can be a succulent addition to the taste of the turkey no matter how it is prepared. Some pinot noir options include Calera, St. Innocent Villages Cuvee, and Meiomi.

Beaujolais Nouveau

A Beaujolais Nouveau is made with Gamay grapes. Gamay is an elegant wine pairing with turkey itself. Beaujolais Nouveau, though, is released right before the Thanksgiving holiday, making it a special, timely treat that family and friends will appreciate. Don’t be put off by the fact that it is a young wine. The 2019 release date is November 21st!

Have fun this Thanksgiving as you celebrate this special holiday with your friends and family. We have everything you need to make your holiday a memorable one. Come in, attend one of our events, view our selection, and feel free to ask any questions you may have. We are here to help!