Wine and Cheese Pairings for a Memorable Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, enjoying delicious food, and expressing gratitude. A great way to elevate your Thanksgiving feast is with a carefully curated selection of wines and cheeses. Here are some fantastic pairings to complement your traditional holiday spread:

Classic Pairings:

• Turkey and Chardonnay: A classic pairing, Chardonnay's buttery notes and acidity complement the savory flavors of turkey. Opt for a well-balanced Chardonnay with oak aging.
• Ham and Riesling: Riesling's sweetness and acidity make it a perfect match for the salty and slightly sweet flavors of ham. A Riesling with off-dry to medium-sweet levels will work well.
• Stuffing and Pinot Noir: Pinot Noir's light body and red fruit flavors pair beautifully with the rich and savory flavors of stuffing. Look for a Pinot Noir with good acidity.

Adventurous Pairings:

• Cranberry Sauce and Gewürztraminer: The spicy and floral aromas of Gewürztraminer complement the tartness of cranberry sauce. A Gewürztraminer with off-dry to sweet levels will work best.
• Pumpkin Pie and Cabernet Sauvignon: The bold flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon can stand up to the sweetness of pumpkin pie. Look for a Cabernet Sauvignon with moderate tannins and a touch of sweetness.
• Mashed Potatoes and Sauvignon Blanc: Sauvignon Blanc's bright acidity and herbaceous notes cut through the richness of mashed potatoes. A Sauvignon Blanc with a touch of sweetness will work well. 

Cheese Pairings:

• Hard Cheeses (Parmesan, Cheddar): Pair with full-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
• Semi-Soft Cheeses (Brie, Camembert): Pair with off-dry Riesling or Pinot Noir.
• Blue Cheeses (Roquefort, Gorgonzola): Pair with sweet wines like Port or Sauternes.

Remember, these are just suggestions. The best way to find your perfect pairings is to experiment and find what you enjoy. Happy Thanksgiving!