Thanksgiving is one of the few times a year when every seat at the table is filled, every plate is overflowing, and the pressure to get the pairings right feels a little higher than usual. Between the turkey, the stuffing, the cranberry sauce, and that one aunt’s surprise casserole, there’s a lot happening flavor-wise. That’s where a well-thought-out wine selection does more than elevate the meal. It smooths out the chaos, ties the courses together, and turns dinner into an experience. So, whether you’re pouring for a crowd, bringing a bottle to someone else’s table, or just planning ahead, here’s your go-to guide for what to pair, what to buy early, and why it matters.
Start with a Sparkling Welcome
A sparkling wine or crisp Pprosecco is the perfect way to kick things off. It sets the mood, wakes up the palate, and pairs effortlessly with salty appetizers, soft cheeses, and anything involving puff pastry. Bonus: bBubbles always feel like a celebration, and Thanksgiving deserves that kind of energy.
White Wines with Balance
When it comes to the main meal, you’ll want white wines that can hold their own, —think fuller-bodied but still fresh. A Cchardonnay with its light oak and citrus notes works beautifully with turkey and richer sides like mashed potatoes or gravy. For something more floral and fruit-forward, a dry Rriesling or Vviognier offers a great contrast to savory stuffing and spiced cranberry sauce. These wines play nicely with the meal without overpowering it.
Red Wines that Keep the Peace
Not every red wine fits Thanksgiving. Heavy tannins can fight with the food and the mood, so lean into approachable, fruit-forward reds. Pinot Nnoir remains the favorite for a reason: its acidity and lighter body make it a flexible partner for everything on the plate. A Beaujolais-Villages or Cru Beaujolais is another excellent pick; it’s bright, juicy, and seasonal. If you want something a bit bolder, a softer Zzinfandel can add richness without overwhelming the food.
What to Stock Up On
Thanksgiving week is not when you want to be fighting over the last bottle on the shelf. Now is the time to stock up on versatile crowd-pleasers: a mix of red, white, and sparkling wines that will cover everything from Friendsgiving to the leftovers. Keep a few extra bottles on hand for last-minute invites, host gifts, or just winding down after the dishes are done.
Want to Try Something a Bit Different?
If you’re looking to switch things up this year, there are a few standout options that still feel festive but a little more unexpected. An orange wine, made by leaving white grape skins in contact with the juice, adds a touch of texture and earthiness that complements roasted vegetables and fall flavors. A chilled Gamay (especially from regions outside Beaujolais) can be a fresh, fun twist on a traditional red. Or, for something with a bit of sweetness and spice, consider a Ggewürztraminer, floral, aromatic, and surprisingly versatile with Thanksgiving dishes.
One Last Tip
The best Thanksgiving wines aren’t always the rarest or the most expensive; they’re the ones that help everyone relax, laugh, and linger a little longer at the table. So pick wines that feel generous, not fussy. Wines that work with the meal, not just the moment. And remember: there’s no wrong way to do Thanksgiving, but the right wine can make it even better. New Hampshire Liquor & Wine Outlets is here to help make your holiday meal one to remember. Keep an eye out on our social platforms for some inspirational cocktails!
