8 Unexpected Thanksgiving Wine Pairings
While classic Thanksgiving wine pairings are well-loved, exploring unexpected options can add excitement to the holiday table and surprise your guests. These unconventional wines bring new dimensions to traditional dishes and make for memorable dining experiences.
Orange wines, made by fermenting white grapes with their skins, are an adventurous choice. Their textured mouthfeel and complex notes of dried apricots, tea, and spice pair beautifully with roasted turkey, savory stuffing, and even cranberry sauce. Their unique profile bridges the gap between red and white wines, offering versatility for diverse dishes.
Another surprising option is rosé. With its crisp acidity, and hints of red berries, this wine complements the richness of mashed potatoes and gravy while cutting through the sweetness of candied yams. Its festive appeal also makes it a perfect choice for toasts.
Unexpected Thanksgiving wine pairings not only complement the flavors of the feast but also spark conversation, making them a delightful way to elevate the holiday experience. Here are some of our favorite non-traditional choices for this Thanksgiving.
Ovum Off the Grid Riesling, Cedar Ranch Vineyard, Rogue Valley
An intense Oregon Riesling with deep yellow hues, aromas of apricot, lemon, and thyme, and a luscious texture from aging in custom Acacia wood barrels.
Caparra & Siciliani Cirò Classico Superiore
A rustic, but light red wine crafted from 100% Gaglioppo, the hallmark grape of Calabria's Cirò region, featuring aromas of ripe cherries, wild berries, and dried herbs, with a light palate of red fruit, tobacco, leather, and bright acidity.
Accenti Doctor Vineyard Rose Alexander Valley
This Rosé offers fresh strawberry and raspberry aromas with subtle floral notes. Crisp acidity and a light, lively body make it refreshing, versatile, and perfect with lighter meals.
Movia Rebula Ribolla
This biodynamic orange wine offers aromas of dried apricots, orange peel, and honey, with a full-bodied palate of stone fruits, citrus zest, almond, bright acidity, and subtle tannins
Azienda Agricola Buccia Nera Toscana Pa'Ro Bianco
Buccia Nera's orange wine offers aromas of dried herbs, golden apple, and peach, with a palate of fresh, savory tones, tea-like tannins, dried apricot, citrus peel, and a mineral finish.
Division Villages Béton American Red Wine
This red blend features vibrant flavors of dark berries, floral notes, and earthy undertones, with a core of Loire clone Cabernet Franc complemented by Gamay, Malbec, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Matthiasson, White Wine Napa Valley 2020
This vibrant white offers aromas of Meyer lemon, white peach, and jasmine, with a crisp, elegant palate featuring citrus, stone fruits, balanced acidity, and subtle minerality on a dry finish.
Cardedu Vermentino di Sardegna 'Nuo'
A fuller-bodied Vermentino with vibrant citrus, green apple, and herbal notes. Refreshing acidity and a touch of salinity add depth, reflecting Sardinia’s coastal terroir.