Thanksgiving will soon be here, and you’ve probably already decided on your menu. And you’ll want some great wines to go with the big meal.
Yes, you could always go with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Chardonnay — but why not leave your comfort zone and try something new?
Rosé Wines: Try Mulderbosch Rose, from South Africa, made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Or, Wolffer Estate “Summer in a Bottle” Rosé Cotes de Provence. If you want your guests to marvel over the bottle, try JNSQ Rosé Cru (which is also a very nice wine). Domestically, Josh Cellars from California is always nice and goes great with cranberries, stuffing, relishes, everything!
Gewurztraminer: This aromatic white wine grape variety is known for its high natural sugar, distinctive pink to red skin, and lovely bouquet. Often somewhat spicy, it’s a nice change from all those Chardonnays or Pinot Grigios you’re often offered at (boring?) dinner parties. Try California’s Fetzer Vineyards. Dependable, inexpensive “authentic” Alsatians also come from France’s Trimbach or Hugel et Fils.
Pinot Noir: Lotsa folk say this is a great pairing with turkey – its bright cherry flavors and gentle tannins and acidity work well with Thanksgiving treats. Check out any of these Pinots from Willamette Valley in Oregon: Acrobat, Erath, David Hill, Kings Ridge, or Underwood Cellars. From France, try Bouchard Pere et Fils, or Domaine Faiveley.
Vouvray/Chenin Blanc: These are among the best wines in the world for Turkey. Vouvrays are Chenin Blanc-based wines from France, and come in a variety of styles from dry to off-dry, semi-sweet, and sweet. South Africa produces great ones, too, which they call “Steen.” And Napa’s Pine Ridge makes both wonderful still and sparkling mixtures of Chenin Blanc and Viognier that I highly recommend.
Beaujolais: This underappreciated and often-dissed wine is a great choice if you’re not a white drinker but still want wine with your bird. The Gamay grape makes easy-to-drink wines that are fruity but dry and go nicely with most things on the menu. You’ll likely find a good, reliable number of these wines including Georges Dubeouf, Louis Jadot, and Debeaune Special Selection Beaujolais.
Happy Thanksgiving 2025!
