Thanksgiving is a celebration of favorite dishes, family traditions, and time spent together around the table. Choosing the right wines can elevate each course, bringing balance and harmony to the wide range of flavors that define the holiday.
From a sparkling start to a rich Cabernet Sauvignon with the main course, Sterling Vineyards winemaker Lauren Kopit shares her favorite Thanksgiving pairings and the wines she reaches for year after year.
Summary
This Thanksgiving pairing guide features Sterling Vineyards wines matched with classic holiday dishes, from appetizers and the main course to dessert, offering balance, versatility, and seasonal elegance.
A Personal Thanksgiving Tradition
For Lauren Kopit, Thanksgiving is as much about connection as it is about food and wine.
“I usually spend Thanksgiving with my family, and my sister and I get to have some good bonding time. I like to pair sister time with our 2019 Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon. Its fresh, juicy fruit and sweet oak notes pair well with the sweetness of spending time together.”
Her approach reflects the spirit of the holiday. Thoughtful wines that enhance both the meal and the moment.
Appetizer Pairings
Goat Cheese Crostini with Fig Jam and Thyme
Paired with Malvasia
Malvasia’s aromatic profile and bright acidity complement creamy goat cheese and the subtle sweetness of fig jam. Floral notes and a crisp finish lift the herbs and richness without overwhelming the palate, making this an ideal way to begin the meal.
Mushroom and Gruyère Tartlets
Paired with Carneros Pinot Noir
Carneros Pinot Noir brings silky texture and fruit forward elegance that highlights the earthy depth of roasted mushrooms and the nutty complexity of Gruyère. This pairing transitions smoothly from appetizers into the heart of the meal.
Main Course Pairing
Herb Roasted Turkey with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Cranberry Relish
Paired with Reserve Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon
Reserve Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon delivers layers of dark cherry, plum, and warm spice that stand up to roasted turkey and buttery sides. Its structure balances savory flavors while complementing the sweetness of cranberry relish, adding a celebratory note to the table.
Dessert Pairing
Pumpkin Pie with Spiced Whipped Cream
Paired with Sparkling Brut
A crisp and refreshing finish to the feast, Sparkling Brut offers bright bubbles and notes of pear and citrus that balance creamy pumpkin pie and warming spices. The result is a palate cleansing finale that feels festive and light.
FAQs
What wines pair best with a traditional Thanksgiving meal?
Wines with balance and versatility such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, aromatic whites, and sparkling wines work especially well with Thanksgiving dishes.
Should I serve more than one wine at Thanksgiving?
Yes. Offering a progression from sparkling to white to red allows each course to shine and keeps pairings flexible for guests.
Is Cabernet Sauvignon too bold for Thanksgiving?
A well-balanced Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with turkey and rich sides, especially when it offers freshness and moderate tannins.
