Best Wine and Turkey Pairings
When it comes to enjoying a turkey dinner, whether on Thanksgiving or any other day of the year, the perfect wine pairing can take your meal from good to great. It may be a bit overwhelming when trying to select the right bottle, but worry not!
In this blog post, the Hillside Turkey Farms team will discuss the best red, white, and rosé wines to complement your turkey dinner. So, whether you’re a traditionalist who prefers a full-bodied red wine or you enjoy a lighter, fruitier taste, we’re here to help you find the perfect wine pairing for your turkey meal:
Red Wines
Red wines are a staple for Thanksgiving dinner, especially if you enjoy a heartier meal. Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel are all excellent choices as they pair well with the rich flavors of turkey and gravy. If you prefer a more bold wine, choose a Cabernet Sauvignon—it has a strong taste, making it perfect for red meats.
On the other hand, Pinot Noir is a bit lighter, with notes of earth, berries, and spice, so it’s a great wine for those who prefer a subtler taste. Lastly, Zinfandel is a versatile wine with fruity and spicy notes, perfect for those who enjoy a spicier turkey dish.
White Wines
White wines are typically lighter and crisp, pairing well with a variety of dishes. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Riesling are excellent choices to accompany your turkey dinner. Sauvignon Blanc is a light and citrusy wine that compliments turkey well, as it doesn’t overpower the dish’s flavor.
Chardonnay is a more robust white wine featuring notes of vanilla and butter. If you prefer your wine a bit sweeter, Riesling is an ideal pick—it features fruity and floral aromas with a balanced sweetness perfect for turkey stuffing.
Rosé Wines
If you’re looking for something different and fun, try a rosé wine! Rosé wines are trendy right now, with light and fruity notes making them great for your Thanksgiving or holiday meal. The best rosé wines to accompany your turkey dinner are those with a bit of sweetness and a light, refreshing flavor.
Look for a rosé with a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah grapes for a richer flavor. Another good option is a rosé made with Pinot Noir grapes, which has subtle notes of cherry and strawberry.
How to Choose the Best Wine Pairing with Turkey and Gravy
Finding the perfect wine to pair with your turkey dinner can be challenging, but it’s worth the effort. In general, if you plan to serve a sweeter dish, such as cranberry sauce, a dry or off-dry wine is best.
A fruity or spicy wine will complement a savory dish, like stuffing or mashed potatoes. Lastly, for a smoky or spicy turkey dish, look for a wine with a higher sugar content to balance these flavors.
Find the Best Thanksgiving Wine and Fresh Turkey in Frederick County, Maryland
Find fresh, delicious turkey and other meats, cheeses, and more at Hillside Turkey Farms. Our family has been in the business in Thurmont, Maryland, since 1939 and proudly provides families with delicious, fresh turkeys all year round.
Place a pre-order for pick-up or delivery on our website, or give us a call at 301-271-2728 if you have any questions.
FAQ About Wine with Turkey
Which wine goes well with turkey?
Many wines pair well with turkey, thanks to its mild flavor and versatility. Some of the best wine choices include pinot noir, zinfandel, and chardonnay. These wines balance the savory turkey flavors and popular side dishes like stuffing and gravy. Riesling and sauvignon blanc are also excellent options if you’re serving a Thanksgiving turkey with cranberry sauce or sweet elements.
Does turkey go with red or white wine?
Turkey pairs beautifully with both red and white wines, depending on your flavor preferences and side dishes. Red wine like pinot noir, beaujolais, or even a light burgundy offers great wine pairing with darker meat or spiced stuffing. White wine, such as chardonnay or sauvignon blanc, works well with white meat like turkey breast and lighter fare. It’s all about balance and personal preference.
What wine is best for Thanksgiving dinner?
The best wine for Thanksgiving dinner depends on your menu, but go for versatile wines with high acidity and moderate tannin. Pinot noir, cru beaujolais, zinfandel, and chardonnay are top picks for a traditional Thanksgiving turkey meal. If you’re serving a smoked or fried turkey, consider a sparkling wine like champagne, or a riesling with a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
Can you drink Pinot Grigio with turkey?
Yes, pinot grigio pairs well with turkey, especially roast turkey with lighter side dishes. Its crisp acidity complements the delicate flavors of white meat and adds a refreshing contrast to stuffing and cranberry sauce. While it’s not as robust as chardonnay or as nuanced as sauvignon blanc, it’s still a great wine choice for a lighter Thanksgiving meal.
What wine is popular in turkey?
If you’re referring to Turkey the country, chenin blanc, Boğazkere, and Öküzgözü are among the local wines. However, for a turkey dinner in the U.S., popular wines include pinot noir, beaujolais nouveau, riesling, and chardonnay. These are all classic Thanksgiving wine pairings that pair well with both dark and white meat, as well as common side dishes.
What drink do you have with turkey?
Wine is the most common and celebrated drink to enjoy with turkey. Depending on your taste and the turkey recipe, options include pinot noir, sauvignon blanc, zinfandel, riesling, and even champagne for a sparkle on the Thanksgiving table. For non-wine options, light ciders and craft beers also pair well, but pairing wine and turkey remains the classic and elegant choice for Thanksgiving.