Wines for Talking Turkey

Amazingly enough it's already that time of the year again to start planning your Thanksgiving meal.
Turkey? Check!
Sides? Check!
Desserts? Check!
Now...for the wines? This can be one of the hardest parts of planning your Thanksgiving, especially if you're trying to please everyone! Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are often the most traditional options, however I've compiled a top ten list of a few other varietals that would shine with your meal as well (in no particular order):


1. Champagne/Sparkling Wine, especially a Blanc de Blanc: which means white of white and is 100% Chardonnay..and who doesn't like bubbly??
2. Viognier: with it's beautifully floral notes it will highlight that in your food and if you have any dishes with truffles in it...pure magic!
3. Riesling: Apples and pears, and a touch sweet with refreshing acidity..try one from Washington!
4. Muller Thurgau: currently Germany's most planted grape, a cross between a Riesling and a Sylvaner, slightly tropical on the nose, hint of sweet, great with sweet potatoes
5. Gewurztraminer: with a somewhat spicy palate this white will stand up to the turkey and gravy, would also work with your pumpkin pie
6. Rose: they always seem to do well in a crowd, try a dry one, think a Rose of Pinot Noir or Grenache
7. Grenache: Slightly candied on the nose, often elegant like a Pinot Noir...try a California Central Coast single varietal or even a Chateauneuf du Pape
8. Pinot Meunier: the third, somewhat un-celebrated grape varietal often in Champagne sings with cranberry dishes, rarely seen on it's own however, Domaine Chandon makes a delicious one (check out my early post all about this varietal)
9. Zinfandel: what many consider the quintessential California grape, for Thanksgiving I would go with a lighter, fruitier version
10.Syrah: with it's meaty and peppery notes will play well with the stuffing and especially your darker Turkey pieces

Other wines to think about for dessert? Also try a Moscato D'Asti or Tokjai Aszu with your pumpkin pie and other seasonal treats!