What Wine Goes With Turkey

Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a casual dinner party with friends - turkey is the star of many festive gatherings. But selecting the perfect wine to go with your juicy, succulent bird can be somewhat overwhelming. Whether a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious beginner, you might find yourself wondering: What wine goes best with turkey? Fear not, fellow wine lovers! In this article, we'll walk you through some fantastic options for pairing wine with turkey so you can feel like a pro.

Basic Rules of Wine and Turkey Pairing

When it comes to pairing wine with turkey, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind. By following these rules, you can ensure that your wine enhances the flavors of your meal, rather than competing with it.

1. Match the intensity of the wine with the dish

A wine with too much intensity can easily overwhelm the delicate flavors of the turkey. Opt for a wine with a medium body and well-balanced acidity and tannins to let the flavors of both the bird and the beverage shine.

2. Consider the characteristics of the turkey

Consider the preparation method, seasoning, and side dishes when choosing a wine. For example, if you're serving a heavily spiced turkey dish, pick a wine with bold flavors to match.

Top White Wine Picks

White wine is generally a safe bet when it comes to pairing with turkey. The following options are excellent choices for a white wine-turkey combination that's sure to impress:

• Chardonnay: This versatile and popular wine has a rich, full body and buttery flavor that can complement a roasted or smoked turkey dish well. Opt for a lightly oaked Chardonnay for a balanced pairing.
• Sauvignon Blanc: The crisp acidity of a Sauvignon Blanc can cut through the rich flavors of a turkey dinner, refreshing your palate with each sip. This wine also pairs beautifully with many traditional side dishes, like green beans or asparagus.
• Riesling: Both dry and off-dry Rieslings work well with turkey, particularly when there's a hint of sweetness to the dish. The wine's fruity flavors and acidity can balance the richness of the bird and enhance the taste of your meal.

Top Red Wine Picks

If you prefer red wine, don't fret! There are several red varieties that can pair beautifully with turkey:

• Pinot Noir: This light-bodied and fruity red wine is an excellent match for turkey. The wine's earthy undertones can complement the savory flavors of the bird, while its soft tannins won't overpower the dish.
• Grenache: With its medium body and soft tannins, Grenache can work well with roasted or grilled turkey. Its red fruit flavors and subtle spiciness can add an exciting twist to your meal.
• Zinfandel: If your turkey dish features bold flavors, like a spicy rub or rich sauce, a fruity Zinfandel can be an excellent choice. This wine's jammy character and moderate tannins can marry well with the intensity of the dish without overpowering it.

What Wine Goes With Turkey Example:

Imagine you're hosting a Thanksgiving dinner with a classic roast turkey, savory stuffing, and a cranberry sauce with a touch of sweetness. A dry Riesling, with its bright acidity and fruity flavors, would be an excellent pick for your white wine option. Its zesty freshness will contrast the richness of the turkey and stuffing, while its subtle sweetness will complement the cranberry sauce beautifully.

For a red wine option, you could opt for a Pinot Noir. Its light body and earthy, fruity flavors won't overpower your succulent bird, and its soft tannins will harmonize well with the meal. You'll have two fantastic wine choices that are sure to please the palates of your guests.

And there you have it - a winning roster of whites and reds to ensure your turkey dinner is a hit! By following these guidelines and experimenting with different wines, you'll be sure to find the perfect pairing for your festive feast. So, the next time you're planning a meal with turkey as the star, reach for your newfound wine knowledge and feel like the ultimate wine guru at your gathering. If you enjoyed this article, don't forget to share it and explore other insightful wine guides on Black Wine Club!