With Thanksgiving fast approaching, wine buyers will be looking for wines that pair well with turkey. Fortunately, many wines complement the traditional Thanksgiving meal so you can choose from many varietals based on your own preference. Whites, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, and sparkling wine all work well, while on the red side, Pinot Noirs and fruity Zinfandels also pair well with turkey. If you are still undecided, we have reviewed four reasonably priced wines from Trader Joe’s that are especially well suited to complement your turkey dinner.
Blason de Bourgogne Cuvee Brut – $9.99
This sparkler from Burgundy is clean, crisp, and dry with the aroma of green apples and a slightly toasty finish. Made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the traditional “Champagne method”, it is festive and versatile at a fantastic price. Greet guests with a glass, serve with cheese, pour between courses to refresh the palate, or serve with fruit or desserts for the perfect ending to your Thanksgiving meal.
2006 Chalone Vineyards Pinot Noir – $13.99Chalone is a top notch producer from Monterey County. The caramel nose of the wine is inviting. Flavors of ripe cherry, butterscotch, caramel, and a fair amount of oak fill the mouth. Very full bodied, rich, and ripe for a Pinot. This is not a wimpy wine and while this is a good match with turkey, it can also stand up to hearty fare and red meats.
2006 Ulrich Langguth Riesling – $5.99
A fresh, light Riesling with an apple aroma. The sweetness of the apricot and honey flavors is balanced nicely by the wine’s ‘not too tart" acidity. Short, clean finish. This low alcohol Riesling is perfect for turkey but also would pair well with Asian or Indian foods.
2006 Ulrich Langguth Riesling – $5.992005 Napa River Chardonnay – $4.99
Lastly, a medium to full bodied wine with a nice nose and mouthfeel. You can taste the flavors of tropical fruits, pear, and vanilla. The oak is not overwhelming but might be too heavy for some Chardonnay drinkers. Chardonnay is a very good match with turkey and this wine is no exception. This is a wine that tastes much richer than its price tag. If you like J Lohr and Chateau St. Jean, you will like this wine at half the price.