The Best Thanksgiving Drink Pairings

Thanksgiving is more than just a feast of turkey, stuffing, and pie - it’s time to savor flavors and create lasting memories. A well-chosen drink can elevate your meal, enhancing the flavors of each dish and bringing a little extra joy to the holiday. Here’s a guide to the best Thanksgiving drink pairings for every part of your meal, from appetizers to desserts. 

Appetizers: Sparkling Wines and Light Cocktails 

Kick off the festivities with something light and refreshing. Sparkling wines, like Prosecco or Cava, are perfect for whetting the appetite and pairing with a variety of starters, like charcuterie, deviled eggs, or salads. 

Try This Cocktail: 

Cranberry Spritz 

  • 2 oz cranberry juice
  • 1 oz Aperol 
  • Sparkling water or Prosecco to top 
  • Fresh rosemary for garnish 

This lightly bitter and tart drink sets the tone for a festive evening. 

Turkey and Sides: Reds, Whites, and Whiskey-Based Drinks 

Thanksgiving dinner calls for versatile drinks that complement the wide variety of flavors on your plate. 

  • White Wine: A buttery Chardonnay pairs beautifully with turkey and creamy sides like mashed potatoes or green bean casserole. 
  • Red Wine: Opt for a Pinot Noir or a Grenache. These lighter reds won’t overpower the turkey but can hold their own against rich gravies and cranberry sauce. 
  • Beer: Try a malty amber ale or a pumpkin ale to enhance savory notes. 

Try This Cocktail: 

Maple Old Fashioned 

  • 2 oz Bourbon 
  • ½ oz maple syrup 
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters 
  • Orange peel and cinnamon stick for garnish 

The warm, caramel notes in this drink complement the roasted flavors of your Thanksgiving spread. 

Vegetarian of Vegan Mains: Whites and Earthy Reds 

For plant-based mains like mushroom risotto, roasted squash, or lentil loaf, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or an earthy Pinot Noir is an excellent choice.

Try This Cocktail: 

Pomegranate Moscow Mule 

  • 2 oz vodka 
  • 2 oz pomegranate juice 
  • Ginger beer to top 
  • Pomegranate seeds and mint for garnish 

This bright, zesty cocktail balances the hearty flavors of vegetarian dishes. 

Desserts: Dessert Wines, Port, and Spiced Liqueurs 

The meal isn’t complete without dessert, and your drinks should be just as sweet. 

  • Pumpkin Pie: Pair it with a tawny Port or a spiced rum-based cocktail. 
  • Pecan Pie: A nutty Amontillado Sherry enhances its caramelized flavors. 
  • Apple Pie: A late-harvest Riesling or a warm cider cocktail works wonders. 

Try This Cocktail: 

Spiked Apple Cider 

  • 1 oz spiced rum 
  • 1 oz apple brandy 
  • Warm apple cider to fill 
  • Cinnamon stick and apple slice for garnish 

This cozy drink wraps up the meal with a comforting blend of spice and sweetness. 

Non-Alcoholic Options 

Make sure everyone feels included by offering non-alcoholic pairings. Sparkling apple cider, herbal teas, and mocktails can be just as exciting. 

Try This Mocktail: 

Cranberry-Orange Fizz

  • 2 oz cranberry juice
  • 1 oz fresh orange juice 
  • Club soda to top 
  • Orange slice and cranberries for garnish 

It’s festive, refreshing, and perfect for all ages. 

Thanksgiving is a celebration of abundance, and your drink pairings should reflect that. Whether you’re sipping wine, savoring a craft cocktail, or enjoying a bubbly non-alcoholic beverage, the right pairing will make your holiday meal unforgettable! Cheers to a delicious Thanksgiving! 

If you missed any of our past posts, you can read them here, and don’t forget to look out for next week's blog post; Small Business Saturday.    

Thanks for reading, we appreciate you!! Cheers!

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