Do You Serve Red or White Wine With Turkey?

As Thanksgiving approaches, the perennial debate arises once again – do you serve red or white wine with turkey? Both wines can complement the bird beautifully, so which is best? Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you decide.

The Case for White Wine

White wines are usually regarded as easier matches with delicate white meats like turkey The crisp acidity and fruity flavors of whites cut through the richness and prevent the wine from competing with the subtle turkey flavors

Popular choices include:

• Chardonnay – A buttery, oaky Chardonnay matches nicely with roasted turkey. The creaminess softens the bird’s dry texture. French White Burgundy is a classic pick.

• Riesling – Zippy and bright Rieslings keep the palate refreshed through multiple rich sides. Their green apple and citrus notes pair well with anything.

• Pinot Grigio – The bright acidity and lemon-lime notes contrast with turkey’s flavors. Pinot Grigio is a crowd-pleasing choice.

• Sauvignon Blanc – Herbaceousness and acidity cut through turkey’s fattiness. Go for a grassy New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

• Sparkling Wine – Bubbles make fantastic palate cleansers between bites. Try a dry brut Champagne or Prosecco.

Overall, lean towards medium-bodied whites with vibrant acidity. Avoid oaky, buttery Chardonnays which may overpower the turkey.

The Case for Red Wine

While whites may seem like safer turkey wine pairings, don’t rule out reds! Light-bodied, low tannin reds can complement turkey wonderfully. The trick is choosing the right style of red:

• Pinot Noir – Elegant, earthy Pinot Noir is a classic turkey match. The red fruit flavors and silky texture complement white meat perfectly.

• Beaujolais – Made from the Gamay grape, Beaujolais is light-bodied with bright berry notes. It’s an underrated match for poultry.

• Chianti Classico – Cherry flavors and lively acidity in Chianti cut through turkey’s richness. Sangiovese’s medium body won’t overpower.

• Red Blends – Blends like Grenache-Syrah combine light bodies with some richness from Syrah. They bridge white and red pairing strengths.

• Lighter Styles of Cabernet & Merlot – Well-aged, lighter-bodied Bordeaux can work with turkey. Tannins must be resolved though.

Stick to reds with lower tannins and alcohols. Young, bold Cabernet Sauvignons will clash with turkey.

Factors in Choosing Turkey’s Wine Pairing

Beyond color alone, consider these factors when pairing wine with your Thanksgiving turkey:

Turkey Preparation

• Roasted/Baked – Works with both reds and whites. Crisp whites offset roasted flavors while light reds complement.

• Fried – Bold, fruity whites like Chardonnay stand up to fried turkey’s crunchy crust.

• Grilled – Charred flavors love smoky reds like Pinot Noir. Whites fall short with grilled turkey.

• Smoked – Smoky reds complement smoked turkey well. Whites clash with smoky flavors.

Stuffing & Sides

• Fruity Stuffing – Fruit stuffings with apples or cranberries suit Pinot Noir. Herb stuffings match whites.

• Rich Sides – Buttery mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, mac and cheese all do well with oaked Chardonnay or creamy Pinot Grigio.

• Tangy Sides – Cranberry sauce, pickles, and vinaigrette-dressed salads need a bright, high acid white like Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc.

Other Meats

• Ham – Lean towards acidic whites like Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the saltiness.

• Lamb or Beef – Heartier meats call for medium-bodied reds like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Dessert

• Pumpkin Pie – Light, cherry-scented Pinot Noir or Gamay match pumpkin pie’s spices.

• Pecan Pie – Sweeter Chardonnays complement pecan pie’s rich sweetness.

Guest Preferences

Consider personal tastes too! Providing both red and white options guarantees most guests will enjoy their glass.

My Recommendation

My go-to pick is an elegant Red Burgundy Pinot Noir. The red fruit, subtle earthiness and silky texture complement turkey perfectly.

However, crisp, acidic whites like Sauvignon Blanc are foolproof options. For fried or smoked turkey, I’d go with a buttery California Chardonnay – the oakiness handles intense flavors well.

Ultimately, either a light red or a full-bodied white wine will match beautifully with turkey. The wine you choose can be tailored to the turkey’s preparation and your menu. With the right wine, your Thanksgiving meal will be taken to the next level. Here’s to wonderful food, family, and giving thanks!