This holiday season, don’t over think which white wine for Thanksgiving will please everyone. Choosing the right bottle is easy with this helpful guide. Because when it comes down to it, Thanksgiving isn’t just about the turkey. It’s about the sides. The moments. And, of course, the friends and family you share it with.
Whether you’re sticking with tradition or shaking it up this year, here’s your guide to the best white wines for Thanksgiving—complete with bottles that’ll have your guests sneaking second pours.
Looking for a few pumpkin pie wine pairing ideas? Check out this post!
Riesling: The All Arounder
Bottles of Riesling should be sold with a big sign next to them that says, “best turkey wines!”. With its bright acidity and orchard fruit vibes these wines are a slam dunk with turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and hearty sides.
Pro Tip: When picking your white wine for Thanksgiving, go for dry Riesling if you want crisp, zingy pairings. These wines are so easy to sip.
Must-Try California Rieslings:
- Cole Ranch Wines Riesling: With notes of salted lime and green apple, this Healdsburg gem brings the energy to your holiday feast.
- Cobb Wines Riesling: A laser beam of acidity that slices through turkey and gravy like a pro.
Chardonnay: The Traditional Favorite
Ah, Chardonnay, the elegant workhorse of a wine that gets along with every dish on your table, and always makes a good Thanksgiving wine. Whether it’s rich and oaky or lean and steely, these wines are always food-friendly. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, herby stuffing, or that golden-brown turkey centerpiece.
Pro Tip: Go oak-aged for the classic Thanksgiving vibe (think vanilla and a cozy hug in a glass). Prefer something brighter? Unoaked Chardonnay delivers zesty citrus and green apple freshness.
Bottles to Savor:
- Overshine Wine Gap’s Crown Chardonnay: Creamy yet zippy, the fruit in this wine is sourced from one of the best vineyards in Sonoma.
- Lioco Wines Estero Chardonnay: Pie crust, yellow apple, and nectarine? It’s dessert disguised as a main course pairing.
Gewürztraminer: The Spicy One
If Gewürztraminer were a relative at your Thanksgiving table, it’d be the guy or gal with the spicy takes and a flair for drama. Floral, bold, and slightly sweet, it’s made for dishes like spiced pumpkin pie, sweet potatoes, and sausage stuffing.
Pro Tip: Serve slightly chilled to keep it refreshing.
Star Pick:
- Gundlach Bundschu Gewürztraminer: Aromatic with just the right kick of spice, this Sonoma stunner is Thanksgiving in a glass. One more pro tip: Gundlach Bundschu’s Sonoma winery is one of my favorite’s to visit, if you’re looking for a winery rec!
Aligoté: For the Adventurous Sipper
Looking to shake up your Thanksgiving white wine lineup? Enter Aligoté. This citrus-forward varietal is like the cool cousin who brings something totally unexpected (but totally welcome) to the party.
Pro Tip: With its high acidity, Aligoté works wonders as a palate cleanser between rich bites. Bonus: it’s a killer aperitif to serve with your Thanksgiving apps.
Bottle to Grab:
- Jolie-Laide Aligoté: Zippy, floral, and effortlessly refreshing. Your guests will be asking, “What is this?” In a good way!
White Wine Blends: The Best of Both Worlds
Why settle for one varietal when you can have three? Or four? White blends bring balance, complexity, and a sense of adventure to your Thanksgiving spread.
Pro Tip: Look for blends with bright acidity and a touch of roundness for versatility across the table.
Ultimate Blend:
- Matthiasson Napa Valley White Wine: This blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Ribolla Gialla, Semillon, and Tocai Friulano is a masterclass in balance and elegance. Its refreshing citrus notes, delicate floral hints, and creamy texture make it a knockout for Thanksgiving.
- Comunita Monte Regio: Full-bodied orchard fruit with a flash of acidity. The ultimate all-around white wine for Thanksgiving!
Ramato: When You Can’t Decide, White Wine Lovers
Ramato style wines are perfect for those who just can’t decide between red and white wine for Thanksgiving. If you’re torn between the two, Ramato is your answer. Made from Pinot Grigio grapes with extended skin contact, this copper-hued wine offers the best of both worlds: the structure of a red and the freshness of a white. With its savory notes of apricot, orange peel, and subtle tannins, Ramato is a conversation starter that pairs effortlessly with Thanksgiving staples.
Pro Tip: Serve slightly chilled to highlight its bright acidity while keeping its textured complexity intact.
Must-Try Bottle:
- Donkey & Goat’s Ramato: A biodynamic wine with tannins, texture and food-loving acidity. A bottle that shines with turkey, stuffing, and everything in between.
Tips for Thanksgiving White Wine Pairings
- Acidity is Your Best Friend: Wines with bright acidity cut through the richness of turkey and all the trimmings.
- Play with Sweetness: A touch of residual sugar in Rieslings balances bold flavors and spices.
- Get Adventurous: Lesser-known varietals like Aligoté or unique blends can surprise even the most seasoned wine lovers.
FAQ
What is the best white wine for Thanksgiving?
The best white wines for Thanksgiving are versatile, food-friendly and have some acidity to stand up to rich dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and roasted turkey. Wines like Riesling, Chardonnay, or Gewürztraminer fit the bill, plus, they’re available at just about every wine retailer and grocery stores like Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s.
What is the best white wine with turkey?
Turkey is best paired with a white wine that has good acidity and balanced fruit flavors to cut through its richness. Chardonnay is a classic pairing, especially an oak-aged version that complements turkey’s savory herbs and textures. If you’re looking for a lighter option, a dry Riesling or a crisp white wine blend (like Matthiasson or Comunita Wine’s) pairs beautifully, enhancing the turkey’s natural flavors without overpowering them.