6+ Best Wine Pairings for a Perfect Thanksgiving Dinner
Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones and enjoying a feast that warms the heart. As you prepare your favorite dishes, you might wonder how to elevate the experience even more. The right wine can transform your meal into something truly special, creating a delightful harmony between flavors that everyone will remember.
Roast turkey is the star of most Thanksgiving tables, and pairing it with a crisp Chardonnay can enhance its savory flavors beautifully. The buttery, slightly oaky notes of the wine complement the juicy turkey while cutting through the richness of the gravy. This classic pairing is not just delicious but also a nod to traditional Thanksgiving feasts.
1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
Salt and pepper
Butter or olive oil
Fresh herbs (like rosemary and thyme)
Onions, carrots, and celery (for stuffing)
Chicken or turkey broth
The preparation of roast turkey is an art in itself. Rubbing the bird with butter or olive oil, seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs, and stuffing it with aromatic vegetables creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen. The slow roasting process allows the skin to become golden and crispy while keeping the meat tender and juicy. When you take that first bite paired with a chilled Chardonnay, you’ll find a balance that brings out the best in both the turkey and the wine.
If you’re looking for a twist on the traditional turkey, honey-glazed ham can be a delicious alternative. The sweetness of the honey glaze pairs wonderfully with a fruity Pinot Noir, which has a light body and bright acidity. This combination creates a delightful contrast, making each bite of ham taste even better.
1 fully cooked ham (about 8-10 lbs)
Honey
Brown sugar
Dijon mustard
Ground cloves
Pinot Noir wine
Preparing honey-glazed ham is surprisingly simple. You start by scoring the surface of the ham, creating diamond shapes, then mixing honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves to create a sticky glaze. As the ham roasts, the glaze caramelizes, forming a sweet crust that perfectly complements the savory meat. When paired with a glass of smooth Pinot Noir, the flavors meld together, making your Thanksgiving dinner feel even more festive.
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without dessert, and pumpkin pie is a favorite that deserves a delightful pairing. The rich, spiced flavors of pumpkin pie go hand in hand with a sweet Late Harvest Riesling, which brings out the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg while adding a refreshing finish. This pairing turns your closing course into a sweet celebration.
1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
3/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
3 large eggs
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
Making pumpkin pie is a cherished tradition for many families. Mixing pumpkin puree with sugar and spices creates a luscious filling that’s poured into a pie crust and baked to perfection. The aroma wafting through your home will have everyone eagerly awaiting dessert. When served with a chilled glass of Late Harvest Riesling, it transforms the pie into an unforgettable end to your Thanksgiving meal, leaving everyone with happy taste buds and full hearts.
