Thanksgiving is often celebrated with a rich tradition of food, family, and gratitude, but the choice of wine may be an afterthought for many. While the holiday has its roots in American culture, the world offers an astounding array of wines that can enhance this festive meal. Featuring diverse flavors and styles, the right wine can elevate your Thanksgiving feast, creating a fine synergy with everything from turkey to side dishes. In this article, we’ll explore some exceptional wines from various regions that can complement your Thanksgiving table, moving beyond the typical domestic selections.
Starting with whites is an excellent choice, as they can provide a fresh and vibrant counterbalance to heavier dishes. One standout option is the Attems “Cicinis” Sauvignon Blanc 2020 from Collio DOC, Italy. Its unique profile—rich with yellow fruits and hints of hazelnut—gives it a character that diverges from conventional Sauvignon Blancs, making it a warming partner for creamy dishes and roasted turkey.
Another exceptional white is Clos Solene’s “Hommage Blanc” 2022, hailing from Paso Robles. This blend, primarily made of Roussanne, is a creamy masterpiece aged in oak that offers layers of complexity. With its full-bodied mouthfeel, it works wonderfully with buttery mashed potatoes or rich stuffing.
Exploring lesser-known varietals, Cormorant’s Vermentino 2023 from El Dorado County provides a zesty, lemony profile that enhances fall flavors without overwhelming the palate. This refreshing wine is incredibly versatile, supporting everything from roasted veggies to herb-infused appetizers.
Echolands “Albus” 2023 from Walla Walla presents an exquisite blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon. Its golden hue, coupled with a savory herbal aroma, lends it a luxurious quality that can spotlight complex dishes like herb-crusted turkey or mushroom-stuffed sides. Embracing Chardonnay might seem risky during Thanksgiving; however, Lagaria’s “Italian Style” approach to this classic grape can ease any hesitations. Its lighter, transparent characteristics make it a crowd-pleaser, seamlessly uniting the diverse flavors on the table.
For something both familiar and refreshing, Lange Twins’ Chenin Blanc “Merrill Vineyard” 2023 is a delightful choice, delivering bright apple notes with a modern twist. Meanwhile, Muriel’s 2022 Blanco from Rioja offers a floral, fruity explosion that pairs beautifully with greens and appetizers.
Lastly, don’t overlook Simonsig Chenin Blanc 2023 from South Africa. This wine brings a legacy with it—having been established since 1688—and is sure to impress with its balance and depth, making it an excellent complement to a wide array of dishes.
Moving on to red wines, the options become even more intriguing. Calera’s Ryan Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019 captures the essence of a high-elevation region, boasting bright raspberry notes and minerality that can pair brilliantly with turkey or duck. Its smooth tannins ensure a pleasant experience at the dinner table where flavors can clash.
A unique offering is Cormorant’s Gamay Noir from the Zabala Vineyard, renowned for its elegance and balance. With vibrant red fruit flavors balanced by acid, it offers a sophisticated touch for those classic Thanksgiving sides, complementing cranberry dishes with grace.
Conde Brandolini d’Adda Vistorta Merlot from the smart Veneto region combines juiciness while maintaining an elegant demeanor. Having matured in French oak, it presents a rounded palate that would harmonize beautifully with a rich gravy.
For those leaning toward more adventurous options, the David Bruce Pinot Noir Estate 2021 from Santa Cruz stands as a testament to the region. Its array of crunchy red fruits and earthy nuances adds depth and complexity, resonating well with roast meats and earthy side dishes.
A standout choice is Tenuta Sant’Antonio’s “Nafre” 2021 Valpolicella DOC, a medium-bodied red bursting with lightly crunchy fruits. Its silkiness makes it a marvelous alternative to classic varietals, especially for guests who may shy away from more robust wines.
Sipping Through the Rose Selections
Completing the wine list with rosés provides guests with refreshing options that can bridge between appetizers and the main course. The Conde Valdemar Rose 2023 from Rioja is characterized by its coral-pink hue and a profile filled with tart red strawberries. This lightness beautifully counters heavier flavors, making it an excellent match with sweet and savory dishes alike.
Dr. Konstantine Frank’s Dry Rose of Saperavi 2023 from the Finger Lakes serves a different purpose. It brings earthy notes and a complex palate that pairs wonderfully with balsamic-glazed Brussels sprouts.
Finally, Michel Reybier’s Chateau La Mascaronne 2022 from Côtes de Provence embodies the essence of summer fruit while offering an organic touch—ideal to sip on before the meal as an aperitif or to accompany lighter starters.
By exploring international wines, you can elevate your Thanksgiving dining experience. Each selected wine not only enhances flavors on the table but also allows for a global tapestry of taste to emerge, introducing your guests to new favorites while honoring tradition. Whether your preference leans towards white, red, or rosé, there lies a world of exquisite choices to delight the palate this holiday season. Cheers to a memorable feast!