Thanksgiving is a feast of traditions, flavors, and rich contrasts—from herb‑roasted turkey and savory stuffing to sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. The right wines can elevate every bite, bridging courses, balancing textures, and bringing harmony to your table. Whether you want to pair with turkey, dessert, or something unexpected, here’s your comprehensive wine guide for Thanksgiving 2025 from Blackwell’s Wines & Spirits.
Core Principles for Thanksgiving Wine Pairing
Before diving into bottles, keep these guiding principles in mind:
- Match intensity: Lean wines with lighter dishes; richer wines for heavier or spiced dishes.
- Seek balance: Acidity cleanses fat; soft tannins won’t overpower delicate flavors.
- Think across the menu: One bottle may need to stretch from appetizers to dessert.
- Accommodate variety: With multiple dishes, include at least one white and one red (plus a special wine or two).
Reds That Shine at Thanksgiving
Red wines often get all the love at holiday tables. Here are top picks that deliver on structure, flavor, and food-friendliness.
- Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon 2021: Bold, refined, and ideal for hearty Thanksgiving dishes. Shop this wine.
- Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon 2022: A lush and fruit-forward Napa favorite that brings brightness and depth. View this bottle.
- Springfield Whole Berry Cabernet Sauvignon: Fuller texture and warm character, great with rich sides. Check this wine.
- GRATUS Cabernet Sauvignon Riserva: Smooth structure with elegance—versatile for turkey or ham. See more.
- Penfolds Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz: A spicy, bold red that plays especially well with cranberry glaze or smoked sides. Explore this wine.
Whites & Lighter Wines to Consider
You don’t want your Thanksgiving to feel heavy from only red wines. Whites, aromatic wines, and lighter reds can act as palate resetters.
- Rombauer Vineyards Chardonnay (Carneros): Rich, buttery, with enough oak and fruit to pair with creamy sides and turkey gravy. Learn more.
- St. Michael-Eppan Fallwind Vernatsch: A crisp red-leaning wine with high acidity—great with lighter dishes and as a palate cleanser. View this wine.
- Trinca Bolotas White: Bright, refreshing, ideal when your meal includes green or herbal dishes. Check availability.
- Boschendal Vin D’Or Late Harvest 2024: A sweet white that’s a match for spiced dessert or cheese plates. Browse here.
Unexpected Gems & Dessert Wines
Sometimes the most memorable pairings come from stepping outside the norm.
- Penfolds Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon 2021: A high-end, powerful wine that can stand up to bold flavors. Explore this prestige wine.
- Duckhorn The Discussion 2019: Elegant blend, balanced for multiple courses. View the wine.
- Waterkloof Circle of Life Red: A South African blend offering bright fruit and freshness. See this bottle.
- St. Michael-Eppan Fallwind Vernatsch (repeat intentionally): a wine that can serve both as a lighter red or a refreshing white alternative. (Used above, but worth repeating in flexible pairings.)
How to Sequence Wines Through Your Meal
Here's a sample pour order to guide your Thanksgiving wine service:
- Start with lighter whites or aromatic wines during appetizers.
- Transition to mid-weight reds when moving into mains and sides.
- Offer bolder reds or blends when guests are ready for full flavor.
- Reserve dessert wines or sweet finishes for after dessert or with cheese.
Pouring Tips & Serving Temperatures
- Serve whites chilled (around 45–50°F / 7–10°C).
- Red wines should be slightly below room temperature (60–65°F / 15–18°C).
- Decant full reds 30–60 minutes ahead to open aromas.
- Use appropriate glassware: tulip glasses for whites, wider red glasses to let aromas spread.
- Pour small amounts and refill—keeps wines lively and reduces waste.
Shopping & Planning Tips
To execute a wine-forward Thanksgiving:
- Buy a couple extra bottles—especially of wines you expect to love.
- Order early—holiday demand makes popular labels dry up fastest. Use the Thanksgiving Collection for curated options.
- Label your wines in advance so guests can choose with confidence.
Final Pour
A well-paired wine can turn a holiday meal into a multi-dimensional experience. With these reds, whites, and unexpected choices, you can confidently navigate the full Thanksgiving spread—from appetizers through desserts. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or keeping it intimate, your wine selections can elevate gratitude into celebration. Cheers and happy Thanksgiving from Blackwell’s Wines & Spirits.
