Pairing wine with turkey dinner can be delightful due to the versatility of turkey's flavor profile
Published on 2024-11-13 17:14:59 - Phil Bruner
Pairing wine with turkey dinner can be delightful due to the versatility of turkey's flavor profile. Here are some excellent choices:
- Pinot Noir - This is often considered the quintessential pairing for turkey. Its light to medium body, with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and sometimes earthy undertones, complements the mild flavor of turkey without overpowering it. It also pairs well with the various side dishes like stuffing and cranberry sauce.
- Chardonnay - Particularly if it's unoaked or lightly oaked, Chardonnay can be a great match. The apple, pear, and citrus notes can balance the richness of the meal. If the turkey is prepared with a creamy sauce or if there are creamy side dishes, an oaked Chardonnay with its buttery notes might be even better.
- Beaujolais Nouveau - This young, fresh wine from the Beaujolais region of France is released just in time for Thanksgiving in the U.S. Its fruity, light, and slightly acidic profile makes it a fun and festive choice.
- Riesling - An off-dry or semi-dry Riesling can work wonders, especially if your turkey has a sweet glaze or if you're serving dishes with a bit of sweetness. Its acidity cuts through the richness, and the slight sweetness can complement the flavors of cranberry sauce or sweet potatoes.
- Gewürztraminer - This aromatic white wine with its lychee, rose petal, and spice notes can be an interesting match, especially if your meal includes spicy or exotic elements.
- Zinfandel - A lighter style of Zinfandel can be good, especially if your turkey has a spicy or smoky rub. Its fruit-forward nature with hints of blackberry, pepper, and sometimes a touch of chocolate can complement the meal's complexity.
- Sparkling Wine - Don't overlook bubbles! A good sparkling wine or Champagne can cleanse the palate between bites, and its acidity and effervescence make it a versatile pairing for a variety of dishes.
Remember, the key is balance; you want the wine to complement the meal without either the food or the wine overwhelming the other. Enjoy your dinner!
