PAIRING WINE WITH THANKSGIVING DINNER
By Peggy Fiandaca, LDV Winery in Arizona
Four tips to pair the perfect wine with Thanksgiving dinner.
ON BIG BLEND RADIO: Along with sharing Thanksgiving wine pairing suggestions and Holiday Party Planning Tips, Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of LDV Winery in Arizona, talks about the end of harvest at the winery and what the wine term “acidity” is all about. Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on PodBean.
It’s an American holiday, choose American wine! Better yet choose Arizona wines. Our go-to wine is a Grenache. The ripe berries and soft tannins make it a perfect match for the richness of the typical turkey spread. Also consider an Oregon Pinot Noir.
Think About Flavor Profile. If you are putting a Southwestern spin on the meal, consider the spices when choosing the wine. Fuller-bodied white wines (California Chardonnay or an oaked Viognier) can stand up to the spice, and the buttery mashed potatoes and gravy.
Bubbles. Don’t shy away from a great sparkling wine like a CA Brut Rosé that can complement the intense flavors. Or consider dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer from Washington or Oregon. The acidity can cut through the richness.
Stay away from Sweet Wines. Lean toward the drier profile. Satisfy your sweet tooth with the homemade pies, not your wines.