If a run to the local wine shop is on your “to do” list before Thanksgiving on Thursday these wine pairings may make the trip a little less stressful.
Sommelier Killian Buschetz of Chandler’s Cuisine & Wine Bistro suggests several wines depending on what your meal is.
Turkey-Â He suggests a Beaujolais (Gamay grape) from France for red. The easy to drink and fruit forward wine is good with the white meat and cranberry sauce. For white wine he suggests a Gruner Veltliner from Austria for its acidity and crisp flavor.
Ham- Whether you’re serving ham it on Thanksgiving or waiting until Christmas he recommends a Cabernet Franc for its robust tasting profile. Riesling from the Alsace region of France or Mosel region of Germany offers the acidity with a hint of sweetness for pairing with food.
Beef- The red meat desires a bold red wine from Bordeaux is his first choice. Specifically from Saint-Emilion known for its Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc blends. If need be a Napa Valley red can do the trick but watch out for high alcohol and big fruit wines.
Lobster- A Chardonnay with a hint of oak & butter is the way to go for this delicate seafood. A Pouilly- Fuisse from Burgundy makes for a nice wine pairing.
Salmon- A red Burgundy from Beaune known for its light body and fruit is always good. If you prefer a California or Oregon Pinot ask for a more earthy wine over a bold and jammie wine.
Pecan or Pumpkin pie- A sweet and nutty Pedro Ximinez sherry from Spain hits the spot for the end of the meal.
Wine pairings with a different perspective
Wine is very subjective therefore choices for wine pairing may differ from person to person. LDV Winery winemaker and co-owner Kurt Dunham offers his suggestions for dinner pairings.
He suggests American wines for this American holiday or even an Arizona wine. His go-to red wine is Grenache or an Oregon Pinot Noir. Chardonnay & sparkling wines from California or a Pinot Noir, Riesling or Gewurztraminer from Washington or Oregon are safe bets for your turkey. Check out his video he prepared for the occasion.
