Houston – We’ve reached the middle of November which means, Thanksgiving is just two weeks away!
If that makes you sweat thinking about your menu and spread for the big day, keep reading. Wine and lifestyle expert Daniela Garrido stopped by with her favorite wines that are sure to add magic to your spread and complement those classic Thanksgiving dishes. Here are her picks in her own words!
Maschio Prosecco ($15)
Daniela says...
“Prosecco is an Italian alternative to sparkling/champagne, it’s a palate cleanser plus the easiest welcome offer, and there’s even a Prosecco-roasted turkey with lemon and thyme recipe, which gives it double purpose! Sparkling rose, Prosecco, and Cava are the best options for Thanksgiving because their acidity/bubbles will be less intense than a champagne or Blanc de Blanc.”
J Vineyards Brut Rosé ($50)
Daniela says...
“Sparkling wine shines this time of year! My biggest tip with pairing sparkling wine is to match it with creaminess – whether it’s a creamy brie a creamy pasta or even a creamy chicken. Sparkling wine will cut through the richness and provide a refreshing contrast. Whether it’s a host gift or just an elegant option at your holiday party, I always recommend a fancy brut rose like the J Vineyard. One thing to know about rose is that it’s one of the most food-friendly wines out there and combining it into a sparkling adds notes of ripe raspberries, rose petals, and slivered almonds. Lively acidity with that elegant minerality. I’d recommend this as a crowd-pleaser for the upcoming holiday parties
Rombauer California Zinfandel ($20)
Daniela says...
“I know the feeling of wanting the coziest and silkiest red wine at Thanksgiving dinner, and I would recommend the Rombauer California Zinfandel for this experience. Zinfandel is considered by many to be America’s heritage grape, so we must honor and respect it this holiday season. It has those fall flavors that we love like boysenberry and bold, black plum with hints of clove and vanilla. It is rich, bold, and balanced and pairs perfectly with food that packs a punch – I would recommend this with some meatballs or ribs, and maybe even a berry pie.”
She adds that one thing to know about pairing zinfandel, is that it’s a great main dish and dessert wine pairing.
Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay ($17)
Daniela says...
“I highly recommend a chardonnay option at your upcoming holiday parties because they pair so well with the main dishes – mashed potatoes and turkey. My tip for pairing chardonnay and turkey is that an unoaked chardonnay will pair best with more lemon zest and crisp turkey, where an oaked chardonnay with pair best with a creamier and fatty chicken with sauces and butter. The rich, buttery notes and subtle oak complement turkey’s flavors, and its acidity balances out the meat. Pairing it with buttery mashed potatoes is also a great choice to match those buttery flavors.”
Have fun, plan accordingly, and be thankful for the year that’s almost in our rearview!