Thanksgiving is one of my absolute favorite holidays — the day everybody gathers around the table to celebrate family, thanksgiving, delicious food, and wine. My three daughters and I create laughter, aromas, and a little creative disorder each year when we make our family’s Thanksgiving dinner. Everything from the stuffing and roasted vegetables to the wines that go together is made in-house, following the family recipe but adding some contemporary touches. When I talk with them about my interest in wine, I help them pick the right wine pairing for each course, which will be warm and memorable. Thanksgiving isn’t about the food; it’s about passing on the love of food, family, and wine and making memories with those that matter to me.
Paired with Cellar Beast’s Merlot
This meaty stuffing contains sage and is well-suited to Merlot’s thick, juicy fruitiness. Merlot’s soft tannins lift the sausage, and the red fruit notes amp up the herbaceous sage.
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Cellar Beast's red wine selection creates the perfect pairings for Thanksgiving.
Paired with Cellar Beast’s Chardonnay
The fruity notes of Chardonnay complement the apples and cranberries in this stuffing. The wine's acidity and oak offset the bitter walnuts, giving a clean counterpoint to the dish's sweetness.
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Paired with Cellar Beast’s Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir’s earthy berry aromas complement the umami-laden mushrooms in this stuffing, while its lightweight and acidity keep it fresh and balanced.
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Paired with Cellar Beast’s Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc’s bright citrus notes are an excellent match for roasted butternut squash, while its herbaceous flavors emulate the sage in this stuffing.
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Paired with Cellar Beast’s Zinfandel
The smoky, peppery finish of Zinfandel complements the raciness of jalapeno and the depth of cheddar. The wine's bold fruit flavors enhance this distinctive Southern-style stuffing.
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Paired with Cellar Beast’s Rosé
This is tangy but flavorful stuffing. Rosé: Just enough acidity to detract from the sweet rice of the wild and the tartness of cranberries.
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As Thanksgiving approaches, I’m grateful for the joy and warmth this holiday brings to my family and our table. Each year, my daughters and I savor our time together in the kitchen, creating dishes, sharing stories, and choosing the perfect wines to complement our meal. I hope that you, too, find moments of connection and joy with your loved ones this season. Whether pairing a beautiful wine with turkey, trying a new stuffing recipe, or simply gathering together, I wish your Thanksgiving was filled with laughter, delicious flavors, and unforgettable memories. Cheers to a beautiful holiday—may your glass and heart be full. Happy Thanksgiving!
This guide incorporates advice from reputable wine and culinary sources, such as the Wine & Spirit Education Trust and Wine Folly, to provide accurate and trustworthy pairing recommendations. Although Cellar Beast wines are highlighted, the pairing guidance is designed to benefit all wine enthusiasts.
Explore Our Collection: Discover Cellar Beast wines here. For personalized recommendations or to learn more about our offerings, feel free to contact us.
This guide is crafted by Kim McCullough, co-founder and Level One Sommelier at Cellar Beast Winehouse. With a deep passion for winemaking and over a decade of experience in the wine industry, Kim specializes in pairing wines with various cuisines to elevate dining experiences. Her expertise ensures this guide offers practical, trustworthy insights for wine enthusiasts of all levels.
