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The Give Thanks Trio: Wine Pairings for the Ultimate Feast

Thanksgiving is a celebration of flavors — savory, sweet, and everything in between. The right wines don’t just complement the meal; they bring each dish to life. This year, skip the stress of hunting for one “perfect” pairing. We’ve gathered three beautifully versatile wines — an Unoaked Chardonnay, a Rosé, and, Method, a medium-bodied Chambourcin — that together create the ultimate Thanksgiving wine pairing experience. From turkey and stuffing to sweet potatoes and cranberry sauce, this lineup has every plate covered.

1. The Crisp White: Unoaked Chardonnay

Tasting Notes

Green apple, bright citrus, and a refreshing, crisp finish.

Why it Works

This style of Chardonnay is the ultimate palate cleanser. Its lively acidity and citrus notes cut through the richness of mashed potatoes, gravy, and creamy casseroles, keeping each bite as exciting as the first. Those green apple notes also play beautifully with roasted vegetables and tender turkey breast.

Best Pairings

  • Mashed Potatoes & Gravy: Bright acidity lifts the richness for a balanced bite. 
  • Herb Stuffing: The wine’s citrus and apple notes accent the earthy herbs. 
  • Roasted Root Vegetables: The apple notes harmonize with the slight sweetness and caramelization of carrots or squash.

2. The Versatile Star: Rosé

Tasting Notes

Strawberry, tart raspberry, and bright, refreshing acidity.

Why it Works

Dry Rosé is often called the “MVP” of the Thanksgiving table because it bridges the gap between white and red wines. It’s crisp enough to refresh your palate between bites, yet full of red fruit flavors that play nicely with both light and rich dishes. Those tart raspberry notes practically sing alongside cranberry sauce.

Best Pairings

 
  • Cranberry Sauce: Echoes the tart fruit while softening the bite. 
  • Turkey (Dark or White Meat): Light enough for the breast, flavorful enough for the leg and thighs.
  • Cheese & Charcuterie: A natural match for your pre-dinner nibbles. 

3. The Balanced Red: Method

Tasting Notes

Dark cherry, baking spice, and a hint of chocolate.

Why it Works

Chambourcin is one of Maryland’s hidden gems — approachable, balanced, and brimming with character. With soft tannins and layers of fruit and spice, it’s an ideal red for the Thanksgiving table. Think of it as the comforting thread that ties together the meal — from savory stuffing to spiced sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie. Unlike heavy, high-tannin reds (like Cabernet Sauvignon), this won’t overpower the delicate turkey.

Best Pairings
 

  • Dark Meat Turkey: A perfect match for rich, flavorful bites. 
  • Spiced Sweet Potatoes: The baking spice notes echo every hint of cinnamon and clove. 
  • Mushroom & Sausage Stuffing: Earthy meets earthy for pure comfort. 

Serving Tip: A Flight of Three

Why choose just one? Pour a small taste of each wine and invite your guests to experiment. One sip of Chardonnay with turkey, another of Rosé with cranberry sauce, and a finish of Red Chambourcin with dessert. It’s a simple, interactive way to make the meal memorable — and a beautiful way to share the story of Maryland wine around your Thanksgiving table.

Experience the Give Thanks Trio

The Give Thanks Trio from Simple Theory Wine Co was crafted to take the guesswork out of Thanksgiving wine pairing. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or bringing a bottle to dinner, these wines make it easy to give thanks — and to taste the season in every glass.