Thanksgiving Wine Pairing Tips
Thanksgiving Wine Pairing Tips for a Perfect Holiday
Wine pairing tip and pairing ideas for your Thanksgiving Day festivities. Here are a few wine pairing ideas and deals just for you!
Pair your favorite Thanksgiving wines with delicious side dishes like our Dried Fruit Stuffing.
If you're a wine enthusiast or simply looking to explore new varieties for your next meal or gathering, our curated selection of wines offers something for every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a crisp white, a fruity red, or a decadent dessert wine, we've got you covered. Here's a closer look at some of the standout options available:
Pinot Grigio: Crisp and Refreshing
For those who enjoy a dry white wine with a bright, zesty flavor, Pinot Grigio is a perfect choice. Known for its punchy acidity and refreshing notes of lemons, limes, green apples, and honeysuckle, Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from seafood to light salads.
Top Picks:
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D'Aquino Pinot Grigio (750 ml) – $5.99
A crisp, clean choice at an unbeatable price.
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Menage a Trois Pinot Grigio (750 ml) – $6.99
A refreshing, well-balanced option that delivers bright citrus flavors.
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Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio (750 ml) – $6.99
With a straw-yellow color and hints of quince, this wine offers a harmonious fruit profile with a slightly sweet finish and a delicate, tangy aftertaste.
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Beaujolais & Shiraz: Bold, Fruity, and Full of Flavor
If you're craving a red with bold fruit flavors and a juicy finish, Beaujolais and Shiraz are excellent options. These wines are known for their expressive aromas of ripe red berries and smooth, easy-drinking profiles.
Beaujolais:
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Louis Jadot Beaujolais Village (750 ml) – $7.99
A rich, full-bodied wine with vibrant strawberry flavors and a layer of mineral acidity at the end, this wine is perfect for those who appreciate complexity without heaviness.
Shiraz:
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Yellow Tail Shiraz (750 ml) – $5.99
Known for its rich, fruit-forward character, this Shiraz is a fantastic choice for a casual evening or a barbecue with friends.
Red Wines: Versatile and Flavorful
Red wines don't have to be reserved for steak and hearty meals! Lighter reds can complement a variety of dishes, including turkey breast, roasted vegetables, and even pizza. Serve these wines slightly chilled for an extra refreshing twist.
Red Wine Favorites:
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Bogle Red Wine (750 ml) – $7.99
A smooth, approachable red with subtle berry notes that pair well with a variety of dishes.
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Casillero Del Diablo Red Wine (750 ml) – $7.99
A delicious, medium-bodied red that's perfect for a cozy dinner or casual gathering.
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Robert Mondavi Red Wine (750 ml) – $17.99
A more premium offering, this wine showcases rich aromas of sweet plums, juicy berries, brown sugar, and warm spices. It’s ideal for special occasions or as a gift for wine lovers.
Dessert Wines: Sweet and Decadent
No meal is complete without a sweet ending, and dessert wines are a perfect way to cap off your evening. These wines are rich, flavorful, and ideal for pairing with chocolate, fruit tarts, or cheeses.
Top Dessert Wines:
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Savory & James Ruby or Tawny Port (750 ml) – $10.99
A classic port with deep flavors of ripe fig and plum, perfect for sipping after dinner.
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Fonseca Bin 27 Port (750 ml) – $12.99
Deep ruby color and an intense, rich fruity nose with blackberry, cassis, cherry, and plum aromas. A luxurious and bold port.
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Martini & Rossi Asti (750 ml) – $7.99
A sweet, sparkling wine that’s light and refreshing, ideal for pairing with desserts like fruit-based cakes or sorbets.
Wrap-Up: Finding the Perfect Wine
With such a diverse range of wines available, there's something for every occasion and every palate. From the crisp, citrusy Pinot Grigio to the bold, fruit-forward reds, and the decadent dessert wines, you'll find the ideal bottle to complement your meal or enjoy on its own.
Visit our wine store today and discover new favorites at affordable prices—your next perfect bottle is just a click away.
Note: Prices are valid as of 11/30/16. Always check for updated pricing in-store or online.
FAQs
What is Pinot Grigio, and what foods pair well with it?
Pinot Grigio is a dry white wine known for its crisp acidity and fresh flavors of lemons, limes, green apples, and honeysuckle. It pairs well with light dishes such as seafood, salads, chicken, and fresh cheeses. It also complements vegetarian fare like roasted vegetables or pasta with light sauces.
Can I serve red wine with turkey breast?
Yes! While heavier reds like Cabernet Sauvignon might overwhelm the delicate flavors of turkey breast, lighter reds such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais are excellent choices. These wines complement the subtle flavor of turkey without overpowering it. You can even serve them slightly chilled for a refreshing twist.
What are dessert wines, and when should I serve them?
Dessert wines are sweet wines, often with a higher alcohol content due to fortification. These wines, like Port or Asti, are ideal for sipping after a meal or pairing with desserts such as chocolate, fruit tarts, or cheese. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a sweet treat to end the evening.
How do I choose a good wine for a special occasion?
For special occasions, consider selecting a wine with complexity and a more refined profile. A premium red wine, like Robert Mondavi, offers rich aromas and flavors that elevate the experience. You could also choose a classic dessert wine like Fonseca Bin 27 Port for a luxurious touch. When in doubt, wines with rich flavors, like Pinot Grigio or a higher-end red wine, are sure to impress your guests.
How long can I keep a bottle of wine after opening it?
Once opened, wine should be consumed within 3 to 5 days for optimal taste. Red wines can last a little longer than white wines due to their tannin content. To preserve the quality, reseal the bottle with the cork or a wine stopper, and store it in the refrigerator (even red wines) to slow oxidation.