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Wines
November 17, 2025

Thanksgiving Buying Guide

Your guide to the best wines for your Thanksgiving table.

Thanksgiving is one of the most generous meals of the year: roasted turkey, rich gravy, buttery sides, and a table covered in dishes from every corner of the family. This guide is designed to take the stress out of choosing wine by grouping bottles by style and showing how they fit into a full Thanksgiving spread.

Reds

Reds are often the heart of the holiday for wine lovers. The best Thanksgiving reds bring bright fruit and refreshing acidity so they can move from appetizers to turkey to richly seasoned sides without feeling heavy or drying out your palate.

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is the classic Thanksgiving red. Its red-berry fruit, silky texture, and lively acidity make it incredibly versatile with turkey, ham, stuffing, and dishes that feature herbs, mushrooms, and cranberry sauce.

EnRoute Pinot Noir 2022 – $39.99 (Winery $60)
93 Wine Enthusiast
Vibrant ruby in color, this wine erupts from the glass with aromas of sweet cinnamon, cola, and cherry. There is a charming delicacy here, with flavors of dried rose petal, cherry, and berry pie filling on a midweight palate. A captivating dance between the snappy tannin structure and the lively acidity of this wine leads to a very pleasurable finish. Wonderful with roast turkey, herb stuffing, and roasted root vegetables.

Four Graces Pinot Noir 2022 – $21.99 (Winery $35)
92 James Suckling
90 Wine Enthusiast
A bright Willamette Valley Pinot with aromas of tart cherry, cranberry, and rose petal. The medium-bodied palate offers juicy red-berry flavors, gentle earthiness, and a touch of baking spice. Fine tannins and lively acidity deliver a clean, food-friendly finish. Pair with turkey, cranberry relish, and dishes that include thyme, sage, or mushrooms.

Cristom Mt. Jefferson Pinot Noir 2023 – $39.99
95 Wine Spectator
Earth-laced aromas of blackberry bramble, dark cherry and huckleberry seamlessly weave with savory notes of curry leaves and mushroom caps. On the palate the acidity is lively and the structure elegant, offering vibrant raspberry and cherry layered with forest-floor and rose-hip undertones. The finish is long and spicy, grounded in mineral threads that hint at both youthful energy and future depth.

Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2023 – $44.99 (Winery $60)
94 Jeb Dunnuck
The 2023 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast is a medium ruby color and is fresh on the nose with notes of lifted spice, compact red berries, Bing cherries, roses, and sweet herbs. The palate is medium-bodied, with a polished and fine texture, a silky feel, and clean elegance through the finish. It’s a lovely and charming Pinot Noir with a lot of finesse.
93 James Suckling
It's one of the first 2023 Sonoma pinots to be released and a great reflection of the long, cool growing season. Tangy, fresh and well balanced, with intricate orange zest, cinnamon, red cherry and black tea flavors on a vibrant, acid-driven texture. Medium- to full-bodied. Ideal with herb-roasted turkey, orange-scented cranberry sauce, and fennel or citrus-based salads.

Belle Glos Las Alturas Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021 – $34.99 (Winery $55)
91 Wine Enthusiast
This extremely ripe and bold style of Pinot Noir will please those seeking such lushness. Dark in the glass, it begins with black cherry, toasty caramel and cola milk shake aromas. The palate is hefty and heavy, carrying ripe berry but also tart red-plum-skin flavors, as licorice adds spice. A great choice for guests who love richer reds, and a delicious match for glazed ham, sausage stuffing, and sweet potato dishes.

Cabernet Sauvignon

When Thanksgiving looks more like a feast of beef tenderloin, prime rib, or braised short ribs, Cabernet Sauvignon steps into the spotlight. These wines bring darker fruit, firmer tannins, and more structure, which stand up beautifully to red meat and deeply roasted flavors.

Vineyard 29 Cru Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 – $59.99 (Winery $90)
93 Robert Parker's Wine
The delicious 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Cru is a terrific introduction to the Vineyard 29 style, plus it's reasonably priced and should be at least somewhat available, as 4,600 cases were produced. Black cherries, cassis, and dusty earth notes mark the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate is smooth, velvety, and supple. It even adds hints of chocolate cake and black olives on the finish, each balancing out the other and providing additional complexity. Perfect alongside prime rib, rosemary potatoes, and grilled mushrooms.

Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 – $39.99 (Winery $55)
Bright, balanced Napa Cabernet with aromas of red plum, cranberry and a hint of lavender. On the palate it delivers juicy dark-fruit flavors with cedar and baking-spice notes, supported by medium-plus tannins and fresh acidity. Clean and versatile, it’s approachable now yet offers short-term cellaring potential. Serve with beef tenderloin, lamb, or a rich mushroom and lentil main.

Serial Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 – $19.99 (Winery $30)
The 2021 Serial Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon stands out with deep color and aromas. Wild, red and black berries, sweet herbs, and cedar on the nose intensify on the palate with Chambord, chocolate nib, mocha, and licorice flavors. Savory notes of black pepper and cigar balance the richness of the fruit and accentuate a long back-palate finish. Smooth and supple, the tannins are velvety with medium-plus body. A crowd-pleasing red for brisket, smoky dishes, or day-after-Thanksgiving leftovers.

John Anthony Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 – $55.99 (Winery $85)
Bright aromas of currant, raspberry, cherry and plum are complemented by subtle notes of cigar box, leather and vanilla. On the palate this Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon delivers dark red fruits layered with huckleberry, brambleberry, fresh herbs and baking spice, supported by silky tannins and fine acidity. It finishes long and elegant, balancing power and finesse while inviting further cellar time. Try it with prime rib, blue-cheese gratin potatoes, or roasted portobello mushrooms.

Alternative Reds

Looking to branch out from Pinot and Cab? These alternative reds bring bolder spice, darker fruit, and sometimes a touch of wildness that works beautifully with smoky, grilled, or heavily seasoned dishes on the holiday table.

Aperture Red Blend 2021 – $44.99 (Winery $60)
95 James Suckling
95 Robert Parker
A powerful Sonoma/Bordeaux-style blend dominated by Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Aromas of black currant, lavender, baking spices, and lead pencil evolve into a full-bodied palate showcasing black fruit, cocoa, tobacco, and velvety tannins. A superb pairing for braised short ribs, herb-crusted roasts, or mushroom-heavy sides.

Robert Biale Black Chicken Zinfandel 2022 – $44.99 (Winery $55)
94 Wine Enthusiast
93 Wine Spectator
Ripe blackberry, dark plum, and black cherry aromas lead to a generous, mouthfilling palate of jammy fruit and warm baking spice. Beneath the lush fruit are savory notes of cured meat and black pepper that add depth and balance. Plush tannins and bright acidity carry a long, slightly smoky finish ideal with grilled or smoked turkey, barbecue-style sides, and stuffing with sausage or chorizo.

Seghesio Old Vine Zinfandel 2022 – $39.99
93 Wine Spectator
Described as "like a briar patch in a glass," this Zinfandel offers spirited raspberry and cherry flavors that evolve with notes of underbrush, dried sage, and white pepper. The finish is marked by zesty tannins, providing structure and depth to this vibrant wine. Reach for this with smoked turkey, roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, or sweet-and-savory glaze dishes.

Whites

White wines shine at Thanksgiving because their acidity and freshness cut through richness and salt, while their fruit and texture echo fall flavors. From generous Chardonnay to aromatic whites, these bottles are great for guests who prefer lighter styles or for pairing with starters and side dishes.

Flowers Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2023 – $39.99 (Winery $55)
93 Wine Spectator
This distinctive white features a lively, mouthwatering and energetic mix of pomelo, yuzu and lemon sherbet flavors, with hints of sweetgrass, apple blossoms and lime zest. There's also an appealing grip on the finish.
92 Vinous
The 2023 Chardonnay (Sonoma Coast) from Flowers is gorgeous. Bright, aromatic and vibrant, the 2023 captures all the personality of this late-ripening vintage. Bright saline notes drive through a core of lemon peel, white pepper, slate, chalk and mint. This steely, beautifully persistent Chardonnay is a winner. Pair with roast turkey breast, green bean casserole, and herbed mashed potatoes.

Nickel & Nickel Truchard Chardonnay 2023 – $39.99 (Winery $65)
94 James Suckling
90 Wine Spectator
A bright, focused Carneros Chardonnay with citrus blossom, green apple and pear on the nose. The palate combines a silky mid-palate texture with racy minerality and lively acidity, offering notes of white peach, lemon curd and subtle toasted oak. Finishes clean and precise—excellent with shellfish starters, roasted chicken, or buttery vegetable gratins.

Sonoma-Cutrer Russian River Ranches Chardonnay 2022 – $19.99 (Winery $31)
Russian River Ranches is beautifully focused on the palate with flavors of crisp, zesty lemon, green apple, lime and barrel spice. The wine rounds out with our signature citrus acidity and a nicely balanced long, flavorful finish. A flexible option that works from cheese boards and salads to turkey and creamy casseroles.

Harken Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2023 – $11.99 (Winery $18)
Indulge in the rich flavors of Harken Chardonnay, where a luscious palate of crème brûlée and buttered toast perfectly blends with the warm oak aromatics. The fresh acidity and subtle hint of Bosc pear balances the richness, leaving your taste buds tantalized and longing for more. Think classic American Thanksgiving sides: buttery mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and cornbread stuffing.

Illumination by Quintessa Sauvignon Blanc 2023 – $39.99 (Winery $65)
95 Jeb Dunnuck
Fresh and vibrant, this Sauvignon Blanc shows citrus blossom, white peach and wild thyme on the nose, followed by textured weight and brisk acidity on the palate. Flavors of lemon zest, yellow apple and slate-driven minerality lead into an elegant, lingering finish. Ideal with salads, vegetable-focused dishes, oysters, and lighter appetizers early in the day.

Trefethen Dry Riesling 2023 – $24.99 (Winery $34)
Refreshing aromas of lime zest and apple are layered with floral hints of jasmine and orange blossom. Bright on the palate, flavors of guava and peach are lively with notes of Granny Smith apple and citrus. A touch of seashell-like minerality and verbena spice lingers through the finish, cementing its bracing freshness and varietal precision. Fantastic with spicier sides, honey-glazed carrots, and dishes with ginger or citrus.

Nik Weis Goldtröpfchen Spätlese 2018 – $29.99 (Winery $45)
A richly textured Mosel Spätlese with honeyed stone-fruit, quince and apricot aromatics underpinned by vivid citrus and slate minerality. The palate is concentrated yet refined, with bright acidity balancing the ripe fruit and a long, saline finish. It’s an elegant, age-worthy Riesling that pairs beautifully with glazed ham, sweet potato casserole, or slightly spicy dishes.

Gundlach Bundschu Dry Gewurztraminer – $23.99 (Winery $29)
A burst of exotic aromas—think lychee, honeysuckle and star jasmine—leads into lively citrus notes of grapefruit and Anjou pear. Mid-palate richness and a subtle hint of spice provide depth and character. The finish is crisp and dry, showcasing brilliant acidity and a mineral edge for a vibrant, elegant white. A great match for herb-rich stuffing, spiced squash, and anything with a touch of heat.

Rosé

Rosé is the ultimate bridge wine for Thanksgiving. It has enough fruit to stand up to turkey and ham, but enough freshness to work with salads, sides, and grazing boards. It’s also perfect if you want one wine that can happily follow you from afternoon prep to late-night leftovers.

WALT Rosé 2024 – $29.99 (Winery $40)
Bright and refreshing Rosé of Pinot Noir with notes of nectarine, raspberry, and citrus zest. Crisp acidity and a light mineral streak keep the palate lively and dry, making it an easy match for salads, seafood, or sipping on its own. On the nose it opens with juicy pear, cranberry, lemon rind, and bright starfruit, while the palate delivers a refined mélange of red fruits layered with orange peel and bergamot. Pour this with charcuterie, shrimp cocktail, or the lighter side dishes on the table.

Hampton Water Rosé 2024 – $16.99 (Winery $23)
Created in collaboration between Jon Bon Jovi, his son Jesse Bongiovi, and Languedoc superstar Gérard Bertrand, Hampton Water blends Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvèdre, and Syrah for a fresh, lively profile. Notes of strawberry, watermelon, and citrus glide across a crisp palate, with balanced acidity and a hint of Mediterranean minerality that lingers through a dry, refreshing finish. Great as an all-day sipper, and especially good with appetizers, turkey sandwiches, and post-dinner snacking.

Sparkling

Nothing says celebration like bubbles. Sparkling wines are incredibly food-friendly: the bubbles and acidity refresh your palate between bites, whether you are nibbling on salty snacks, working through the main meal, or enjoying dessert.

Lucien Albrecht Crémant Brut Rosé – $19.99
Bright citrus blossom and lemon-tart aromas lead this sparkling rosé, with kaffir lime and summer-fruit notes on the nose. The palate is crisp and refreshing—grapefruit and lemon zest framed by a slate-driven minerality and vibrant acidity that deliver a clean, lively finish. A perfect aperitif with cheeses, deviled eggs, and lighter hors d'oeuvres.

Roederer Estate Brut – $23.99 (Winery $33)
Wine Spectator 93 Top 100 #20 | Decanter 94 | Jeb Dunnuck 94 | Wine Enthusiast 93
A crisp, elegant California sparkling with bright pear and green apple aromas underscored by brioche and light hazelnut/bakery notes. The palate is lively and mineral-driven, offering lemony brightness, creamy texture from subtle autolysis, and a clean, persistent finish—very food friendly and refreshing on its own.

Taittinger Brut La Française – $49.99 (Winery $70)
This Champagne offers a pale gold color with fine, persistent bubbles. The nose is expressive, delivering aromas of peach, white flowers, vanilla, and brioche. On the palate, it is lively and harmonious, featuring flavors of fresh fruit and honey, culminating in a delicate finish. Serve with rich appetizers, creamy cheeses, or even fried turkey for a luxurious contrast.

Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut Champagne – $44.99 (Winery $65)
This elegant Champagne delivers aromas of cherry plum, lemon, bergamot, and fresh honeysuckle, followed by accents of vanilla and toasted brioche. The palate is crisp and balanced, with vibrant citrus and stone fruit flavors, refined mousse, and a long, refreshing finish. Beautiful at the start of the evening with canapés, or at the end with salty snacks and one last slice of pie.

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