Selecting the Perfect Thanksgiving Natural Wine: It's All About Fun!
When it comes to picking the perfect wine for your Thanksgiving dinner, we're here to take the stress out of the process. Let's make wine selection a delightful journey where your guests and your taste buds take the center stage.
1. It's Less About the Pairings and More About Your Guests
Throw away the rulebook of complicated food and wine pairings. Customize your wine choices based on your guests' preferences. Whether your Thanksgiving crew is a bunch of free-spirited adventurers or a formal gathering, cater to their tastes. If you've got the adventurous souls, consider this orange, while the traditionalists might enjoy this classic Chardonnay. The bottom line: pick wines that your guests will love; after all, turkey goes with just about anything!
2. Kick It Off with Bubbles:
Our experts are unanimous on one thing - when it's time to welcome your guests, it's pet-nats that set the mood! Sparkling wines aren't just festive; they also prep your palate for the culinary extravaganza ahead. While Champagne is a popular choice, there are plenty of budget-friendly options like French crémants, German or Austrian Sekts, Prosecco, or Cava that will do the trick.
3. Choose a Lively, Dry Wine:
If you're starting with appetizers, like a mouthwatering cheese board, stick with this bubbly or venture into the world of dry Riesling, Grüner Veltliner, or Albariño. These vibrant, dry wines will awaken your appetite and keep you sipping throughout the meal. For a dash of flair, go for a Pinot Gris with its delightful texture.
4. Light and Crisp Reds for the Win:
When it comes to red wines, think light and crisp. Pinot Noir is your trusty Swiss Army knife, endorsed by our experts. Gamay, the grape that goes into making Beaujolais, is another excellent light choice. After all, with a grand Thanksgiving feast ahead, who needs heavy wines? If Uncle Larry insists on a hearty red, don't worry, we've got you covered with this Grenache and Zinfandel.
5. Don't Assume That Pricier Means Better:
Keep an eye on your budget when choosing a wine. Don't be afraid to explore the world of boxed wines; they're convenient and offer the equivalent of four bottles, all for less than $35. If you're comfortable spending $20 to $25 per bottle, you'll find a treasure trove of great options in that price range. Don't hesitate to ask us for recommendations, or simply look for the varietals we've mentioned in this guide - all budget-friendly, under $23, like these reds.
6. Stock Up for the Feast:
Expect at least one bottle for every three guests per hour, but feel free to adjust depending on the size and duration of your gathering. If your Thanksgiving marathon starts at noon and ends after three rounds of feasting, consider a couple of extra bottles on standby. If you're a guest, why not bring more than one bottle to show your host how thankful you are?
In conclusion, choosing the right wine for Thanksgiving doesn't have to be a headache. Let's keep it playful and make it all about enjoying the moment and celebrating with loved ones. Here's to a joyful Thanksgiving dinner, filled with laughter, love, and fantastic wine! Cheers! 🍷🦃
