The Best Wine for Thanksgiving: A Napa Valley Local’s Guide

Greetings from the sun-soaked vineyards of Napa Valley! As the air turns crisp and autumn leaves blanket our treasured Californian soil, Thanksgiving, a time of gratitude and togetherness, is just around the corner. One question I often get from fellow wine enthusiasts is: “Which is the best wine for Thanksgiving?” As a proud Napa local and a connoisseur of wines, let me walk you through a journey of delightful pairings for your festive feast.

A Thanksgiving Tale Rooted in Napa Valley

Before diving into wine suggestions, it's worth appreciating the harvest festivities of Napa Valley itself. Our Napa Valley Wine Train has a renowned Thanksgiving journey that celebrates both our rich winemaking heritage and the holiday's sentiments.

Understanding Thanksgiving Flavors

Thanksgiving dishes are a mosaic of flavors – sweet, savory, tart, and spicy. Finding a wine that complements this palette can be challenging, but not when you have the gems of Northern California at your disposal!

The Turkey Paradigm

Turkey, the centerpiece of most Thanksgiving feasts, has a versatile flavor profile, making it amiable to various wine pairings. Let's delve into some curated suggestions:

Red Wines

Pinot Noir:

A classic choice for Thanksgiving, Pinot Noir, with its bright acidity and notes of red berries, complements the roast turkey's savory flavors. Domaine Carneros offers an exquisite collection that would be a delightful addition to your table.

Zinfandel:

For those who prefer bolder flavors, Zinfandel from Ravenswood Winery, with its peppery character and rich fruitiness, can hold its own against hearty gravies and stuffing.

White Wines

Chardonnay:

A buttery, oaked Chardonnay, like those from Frog's Leap, pairs beautifully with turkey and creamy dishes, mirroring their rich textures.

Riesling:

If your table leans towards the sweeter side with dishes like cranberry sauce and sweet potato casserole, an off-dry Riesling from Smith-Madrone can balance those sweet-tart flavors with grace.

Pairings Beyond Turkey

For the Sides

Sauvignon Blanc:

Brussels sprouts, green beans, or salads will shine with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from the Robert Mondavi Winery, which brings a zesty freshness to the mix.

For the Desserts

Late Harvest Wine:

Pecan pie or pumpkin pie? Why choose when you can have both with a bottle of Navarro Vineyards’ Late Harvest wines. Their sweet, concentrated flavors resonate with the spiced, caramel notes of classic Thanksgiving desserts.

Vegetarian or Vegan Thanksgiving? No Problem!

A growing number of tables now feature vegetarian or vegan Thanksgiving dishes. For hearty dishes like stuffed portobello mushrooms or lentil loaf:

Merlot:

Duckhorn Vineyards offers a Merlot with soft tannins and plush fruitiness, an impeccable match for plant-based, umami-rich dishes.

Napa Valley’s Thanksgiving Gift: Wine Blends

Sometimes, the best wine for Thanksgiving isn't a single varietal but a blend. A harmony of different grapes can often mirror the eclectic array of dishes on the Thanksgiving table.

The Prisoner Wine Company’s Red Blend:

This intriguing blend brings together Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and other varietals, offering a wine that’s rich, yet balanced, and can mingle with a diverse range of flavors.

Parting Words: Gratitude in Every Glass

In Napa Valley, wine is more than a beverage—it’s a reflection of the land, the people, and the spirit of community. As you select the best wine for Thanksgiving, remember that each bottle carries with it a story, a legacy. Raise a glass to gratitude, to family, and to the myriad flavors that make life so rich.

Here's to a Thanksgiving filled with joy, laughter, and of course, exceptional wine. Cheers!

Ah, Thanksgiving in Napa Valley! Beyond the rich tapestry of wines to choose from, the valley offers a plethora of businesses and experiences to make your holiday even more memorable. From tasting tours that educate about Thanksgiving pairings to local markets that source the freshest ingredients for your feast, let’s take a closer look.

Thanksgiving Wine Tasting Tours

Cakebread Cellars

A family-run winery with over 40 years of history, Cakebread Cellars offers tastings that frequently showcase wines ideal for festive occasions. For Thanksgiving, their Cabernet Sauvignon and Reserve Chardonnay are often recommended.

Silver Oak Cellars

Renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon, a visit to Silver Oak during the Thanksgiving period might introduce you to some delightful wine pairing options, especially if you prefer reds to complement your turkey.

Local Markets for Thanksgiving Ingredients

Oxbow Public Market

Located in downtown Napa, this vibrant market offers an array of fresh produce, cheeses, and other gourmet ingredients. It’s a great spot to get inspired for your Thanksgiving menu or to pick up some last-minute additions.

Napa Farmers Market

If you're keen on a farm-to-table experience, the Napa Farmers Market is your go-to. You can source local, organic ingredients to elevate your Thanksgiving feast. They often have seasonal specialties that can inspire a unique dish.

Thanksgiving Dining in Napa Valley

Not keen on cooking? These establishments offer sumptuous Thanksgiving feasts:

The Restaurant at Meadowood

For a luxurious Thanksgiving dining experience, this Michelin three-star restaurant offers a Thanksgiving menu that’s both innovative and rooted in tradition.

Bistro Don Giovanni

With its rustic charm and hearty Italian-influenced Californian dishes, Bistro Don Giovanni offers a slightly different, yet delightful, take on Thanksgiving. Their wine list, of course, is impeccable.

Wine Shops for Last-minute Buys

Back Room Wines

A hidden gem in downtown Napa, Back Room Wines has an extensive collection of local wines. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you to the perfect last-minute Thanksgiving wine pick.

Vintner's Collective

Hosting a collection from small, boutique producers, this multi-winery tasting room is a fantastic spot to discover unique wines that can be conversation starters at your Thanksgiving dinner.

Thanksgiving in Napa Valley is a special experience, encompassing not just the wines, but also the spirit of gratitude and community that permeates the air. Whether you're sourcing ingredients, tasting wines, or dining out, each of these businesses brings a touch of Napa's magic to your holiday. Remember to make reservations where needed, and most importantly, savor every moment. Happy Thanksgiving!