Thanksgiving old

Thanksgiving, the most food-centric of all holidays, is a time to enjoy the magic of perfect wine pairings. Explore the many options at Andover Classic Wines—for every cuisine. Turkey—the star—is a actually a tricky one for wine pairing. White or red is a matter of personal preference, but which white or red is important. Some of your normal favorites may clash with or overpower the bird. All the wines in the Turkey section below have a natural affinity to the lean flavor of turkey.

Remember that Thanksgiving is multi-course extravaganza. Consider amplifying your enjoyment of appetizers, main courses, side dishes, and desserts each with the right wines. 

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 Scroll Down For Ideas On Pairing

Appetizers – Turkey – Vegetarian – Desserts

Appetizers

Choose refreshing companions to the first bites on this food-filled festival. Sparkling wines, rosés, crisp whites, and lighter reds all do very well. Appetizers are often compatible with dishes served during the main course, so just add extra bottles if that is the case (pun itended). Most importantly, pick wines that are fun, and maybe just a bit surprising.

Turkey

Turkey is different from all other poultry, with distinctive flavors that can be enhanced by the right wines, but that will be masked or ruined by the wrong ones. White wine made from grapes like Chenin Blanc, Pinot Gris, Viognier, and Riesling have wonderfully complementary notes. On the other hand, Chardonnay hides turkey flavor and Sauvignon Blanc conflicts with it. Juicy reds that achieve the cranberry-sauce-like elevation of turkey like Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Grenache, Gamay, and Tempranillo are perfect choices. Avoid highly tannic reds that will overpower the meat. Here are proven winners for compatible whites and reds: