Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. While everyone is racing to put up Christmas decorations as soon as November rolls around, I’m staunchly a Christmas decorating after Thanksgiving person. Thanksgiving is like the middle child of the end of year holidays, it doesn’t necessarily have the theatricality of Halloween and the extravagance of the December holidays. Thanksgiving is quiet and confident in its simplicity. At its heart, Thanksgiving, is about community and the simple act of sharing food and wine with those around you, being grateful for each other.
As we’re running around the kitchen scheduling how dishes are being prepared, who’s in charge of peeling potatoes or deep frying the turkey, whether football or music is playing in the background, one thing can be easily covered - the wine list.
Whether you’re adding wine to the dish, or the cook, these types of wines are ones I plan to share this Thanksgiving.
Essential Thanksgiving Wines
Start the Celebration with Sparkling
Why It Works: Prosecco’s bright acidity and bubbles cleanse the palate between bites, and the light sweetness balances salty or savory appetizers. This wine is also fantastic with fried or baked hors d'oeuvres.
Sippin Somm’s Pick: Bele Casel Prosecco Superiore Extra Brut NV
Crisp and Refreshing: Riesling
Why It Works: Dry Rieslings are known for balancing acidity and slight minerality, making them ideal for Thanksgiving’s sweet, savory, and even spicy dishes. Its fresh, light profile complements salads, cranberry, and subtly spiced sides without overwhelming delicate flavors.
Sippin Somm’s Pick: Fritz Haag Estate Riesling Trocken 2022
Classic White for a Classic Meal: Chardonnay
Why It Works: An oaked Chardonnay like this one provides a balance of fruit and creamy texture, pairing perfectly with roasted turkey and buttery mashed potatoes. Its versatility also complements herbaceous dishes like stuffing and green bean casserole.
Sippin Somm’s Pick: Tether Chardonnay 2019
Elegant Red: Pinot Noir
Why It Works: Pinot Noir’s lighter body and fresh acidity make it an ideal match for turkey. Its cranberry and cherry notes also echo the flavors of Thanksgiving staples, while the low tannins make it easy to drink throughout the meal.
Sippin Somm’s Pick: Handley Cellars Pinot Noir 2021
Bold and Balanced: Cote du Rhone style Red Blend
Why It Works: GSM blends are structured yet approachable, providing enough depth to stand up to richer flavors. The blend’s warmth and spice add complexity to Thanksgiving foods, particularly with flavors of thyme, rosemary, and sage in side dishes.
Sippin Somm’s Pick: Thacher Winery "Working Holiday" GSM Red Blend 2022
Full-Bodied and Flavorful: Syrah
Why It Works: Syrah’s body and bold flavor profile make it perfect for intensifying rich Thanksgiving dishes. Its dark fruit and smoky notes enhance umami flavors in gravy and savory stuffing, making this wine a standout for those who enjoy bolder reds.
Sippin Somm’s Pick: Jaffurs Winery Santa Barbara County Syrah 2021
Tips for Serving Thanksgiving Wines
- Temperature Matters: Serve whites slightly chilled and reds at a cool room temperature.
- Glassware and Pouring: Encourage guests to use the same glass for each pour if switching wines, to reduce glassware and encourage flavor blending.
- Start Light, End Bold: Begin the meal with sparkling or white wines, transitioning to reds with the main course. Dessert wines can add a sweet end to a delicious evening.
As you’re greeting guests, snacking on appetizers, let your glasses always be full!
Cheers,
Sippin Somm Wines
As your schedules get busier, we’re here to help you make time for yourself, whether it’s slowing down to have a glass of wine with family or friends, or saving you time during the holiday shopping season. Time is precious - spend it with people who you care about.
