Red, White, or Rosé: Finding the Perfect Wine Match for Your Turkey Dinner

Christmas Turkey Dinner, with a Cranberry, Sage Dressing, Candied Pecans with Cranberrys and Rosemary; turkey and wine pairings

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 Sauvignonit 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.

The Perfect Wine Pairing

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.

Fresh Turkeys and More 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.