What Wine Pairs With Turkey

Welcome, fellow wine lovers, to the Black Wine Club! Thanksgiving dinner or any other in which turkey is the main event, can spruce up your entertaining factor with the perfect wine pairing. Turkey is a flexible, crowd-pleasing protein, and it can be enhanced by a well-selected wine to accompany your culinary masterpiece. Are you curious about which wine to choose for the upcoming festivities featuring our feathered friend? Stress no more! We have put together a comprehensive guide to help elevate your meal and impress your artsy, creative guests aged between 25 and 35. So, pour yourself a glass, and let's dive into the magical world of wine pairing.

How Does Wine Pairing Work?

Wine pairing is an art form, and it revolves around finding the perfect balance between the meal's tastes and textures and the chosen wine's aroma, flavor, and structure. A harmonious wine pairing can enhance the overall dining experience by complementing and elevating both the food and the wine.

Factors to Consider when Pairing Wine with Turkey

• Turkey's Flavor Profile: Turkey is a mild-flavored protein with a slight sweetness and savory notes. It's natural flavors can be intensified by the cooking method and accompanying sauces, such as rich gravy or tangy cranberry sauce.
• Preparation Method: The way turkey is prepared can influence its flavor profile. For instance, a roasted turkey can have a crisp skin and tender meat, while a smoked turkey can have a more robust, earthy flavor.
• Side Dishes: The selection of side dishes can greatly affect your choice of wine. Creamy, indulgent sides like mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese require a wine that can cut through the richness, while lighter sides such as grilled vegetables or salads may call for a more delicate wine.

Wine Recommendations for Turkey

Red Wines

• Pinot Noir: This light-bodied red wine is a classic pairing for roast turkey. Its bright red fruit flavors and earthy undertones complement turkey's natural flavors without overpowering it.
• Grenache/Garnacha: A fruity, medium-bodied wine, Grenache or Garnacha would pair nicely with turkey. Its notes of raspberry and black cherry work well with the turkey's savory aspects and help complement the accompanying side dishes.
• Zinfandel: For a bolder choice, Zinfandel's rich and spicy characteristics can elevate a turkey dish, especially a smoked or heavily seasoned variation. Its high alcohol content and tannins help cleanse the palate between bites of flavorful sides.

White Wines

• Chardonnay: A well-balanced Chardonnay that's not overly oaky pairs beautifully with roast turkey. The wine's fruit-forward profile, moderate acidity, and buttery texture complement the turkey's tenderness and richness.
• Viognier: A lush, aromatic white wine, Viognier has fruity notes such as apricot and peach that blend well with turkey's natural sweetness. Its moderate acidity and full-bodied mouthfeel can stand up to richer side dishes as well.
• Gewürztraminer: With its expressive aromatics, Gewürztraminer offers a unique pairing for turkey. Its floral, fruity, and spicy flavors can counterbalance the turkey's mild taste, making it an excellent choice for those looking for something different.

What Wine Pairs With Turkey Example:

Your Thanksgiving dinner is planned with a classic roasted turkey alongside an indulgent selection of sides, including garlic mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce. A bottle of Pinot Noir will beautifully complement the roast turkey, not overpowering its delicate flavors, while its bright acidity will help cut through the rich, creamy sides. Alternatively, a well-rounded Chardonnay can provide a white wine option that matches the turkey's richness and balances the flavorful side dishes.

Congratulations, you're now equipped with the essential knowledge to pair wine with turkey confidently and elevate your next gathering! Share this newfound wisdom with your wine-loving friends, and let's toast to many memorable meals accompanied by perfectly paired wines. And remember, the Black Wine Club is always here to guide you along your wine journey. Explore our other articles, participate in our wine tastings, and immerse yourself in the world of outstanding wines and events. Cheers!