On the menu:

Smoked salmon crostini, mini pear and arugula salads, and prosciutto-wrapped asparagus.

Flavors and textures:

These light bites welcome your guests with earthy, subtly sweet, salty, smoky, and fruity flavors plus a mix of crisp, creamy, and tender textures.

Wine options:

Brut Champagne

Why does it work?

Champagne is perfect for appetizer wine pairings. The fresh citrus notes complement fresh salad vinaigrette and match the herby hints, while the acidity and bubbles contrast salty hints and cleanse the palate after creamy, crispy bites. Champagne also says “let the party begin!”, marking a celebratory start to your Thanksgiving dinner.

On the menu:

Mild and juicy roast turkey stuffed with herbs and butter and served with savory gravy and side dishes like mashed potatoes, oven-baked vegetables, or green beans.

Flavors and textures:

This is hearty fare with savory, umami, and herby notes and soft, tender, crispy textures.  

Wine options:

• Oregon Pinot Noir

• Sonoma Coast Chardonnay (unoaked or lightly oaked)

Why does it work?

With its silky tannins and fresh red fruit, Pinot Noir is one of the best wines for turkey, complementing the tart-sweetness of the cranberry sauce and enhancing the mild flavors. A Sonoma Chardonnay has the full body and buttery notes to complement mashed potatoes and gravy, and the freshness to contrast the creamy, velvety textures. Both wines harmonize with the sage, thyme, and rosemary of the turkey stuffing.

On the menu:

Take your pick! Tasty, roasted root vegetables, Brussels sprouts with a drizzling of balsamic, glazed carrots, sweet potato casserole, and comforting corn pudding.

Flavors and textures:

Caramelized sweetness, earth tones, crispy and soft, creamy textures.

Wine options:

• Viognier

• Riesling

Why does it work?

The floral aromas and ripe stone-fruit notes of Viognier go well with the warm spice and caramelized notes, and its pleasingly viscous texture complements the creaminess of the corn and potato recipes. A Riesling that’s not too dry will balance sweetness while its delicate citrus, stone fruit, and vibrant acidity cut through the richness of these Thanksgiving sides. Both of these white wines offer a fragrant lift that elevates dishes with sweet hints without overwhelming.

On the menu:

Choose from traditional desserts like pumpkin pie, pecan pie, or apple desserts.

Flavors and textures:

Warm spice, nuts, and caramel with velvety textures, apple tart tones, and crumbly, buttery pastry.

Wine options:

• Tawny Port

• Sauternes

Why does it work?

Tawny Port features a nutty caramel depth that complements the brown sugar in pecan pie and a silky mouthfeel that enhances creamy desserts. With its range of fruity notes, Sauternes mirrors fruit-based sweets beautifully, and its lively acidity cuts through creamy, buttery textures. Both of these dessert wines have the weight and sweetness to match Thanksgiving dishes without overpowering or being overpowered.

On the menu:

Stilton, blue cheese, and aged Gouda.

Favors and textures:

Intense, salty, tangy, and rich in umami, with creamy, crumbly textures.

Wine options:

• Vintage Port

• Madeira

Why does it work?

Vintage Port’s deep, rich berry tones and delicate sweetness complement the tangy saltiness of blue cheese. Madeira’s toasted caramel notes harmonize with aged cheeses. Both have structure and velvety mouthfeel for delicious cheese and wine pairings. What a great way to end Thanksgiving dinner!