The holiday season is a time for families, friends and festive celebrations. As Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving, many of us are preparing our menus and gathering decorations for the big day. If you don’t really trust cooking, there’s a nice way to contribute to the celebrations: by bringing a selection of exquisite wines. Not only do wines add a touch of elegance to any meal, but they also enhance the flavors of the dishes served, making them an essential part of the holiday experience.

Why wine is important during the holidays

Wine plays a crucial role in holiday gatherings. Its rich aromas and diverse flavors can enhance traditional dishes, creating a harmonious dining experience. Whether it’s a sparkling wine that greets guests at the door or a robust red that pairs with turkey and stuffing, the right wine can really tie the meal together. When planning your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving dinner, consider how different wines can enhance the flavors of your dishes.

Choosing the Right Wine for Thanksgiving

While there are no hard and fast rules for wine pairings, a few guidelines can help you select the perfect bottles. Given the richness of typical holiday foods, look for wines that can either complement or tone down that richness:

Dry whites: Wines with bright acidity can balance heavier dishes.

Woody whites: Fuller-bodied whites can enhance the luxurious flavors of your meal.

The reds: Lighter, lower-alcohol reds and robust, full-bodied reds can satisfy different palates.

Sparkling: Sparkling wines are versatile and pair well with almost any dish.

Celebrating Black-Owned Wines

This Thanksgiving, why not support Black-owned wineries? These brands not only offer exceptional wines but also contribute to the rich tapestry of the wine industry. Here are some notable options to consider for your holiday table:

1. Domaine Curry 2023 Sauvignon Blanc

Created by Ayesha Curry and her sister-in-law, this Sauvignon Blanc features grapes from Napa Valley. Its refreshing profile includes tropical notes of guava and passion fruit, making it a perfect complement to lighter Thanksgiving dishes.

2. Longevity Wines 2019 Chardonnay

Phil Long’s winery in California produces this elegant Chardonnay, which features ripe fruit flavors balanced by minerality and a touch of oak. It’s a versatile wine that pairs wonderfully with a variety of holiday dishes.

3. The Rosé Festival 2022 Côtes de Provence

This dry and fresh rosé from Saint-Tropez is made from a blend of grapes, offering fruity characteristics and a vibrant profile. This is a delicious option for those looking to add a touch of sophistication to their meal.

4. Maison Noir Wines 2023 ‘The Pinot Noir of Others’

Produced by Andre Heuston Mack in Oregon, this Pinot Noir features classic cherry tones and earthy undertones. It’s light enough to enjoy on its own, but structured enough to enhance your Thanksgiving feast.

5. Frichette 2021 Cabernet Franc Montagne Red

This medium-bodied wine from Washington State offers a fruity profile with aromas of blueberry and raspberry. Its velvety texture makes it a creamy companion to hearty dishes.

6. Meadows Estate Vineyard & Winery 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon

With bold notes of blackberry and plum, this robust Oregon Cabernet Sauvignon is perfect for large family gatherings, bringing energy and structure to the table.

7. Viarae Prosecco and Rosé

Issa Rae’s Italian Prosecco Rosé is a delicious sparkling wine with aromas of strawberries and raspberries. This is a great appetizer to kick off the holiday festivities.

As you prepare for Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving, remember that good wine can enhance your dining experience and bring people together. By choosing Black-owned wines, you not only support diverse voices in the wine industry, but you also add unique flavors to your holiday celebrations. Cheers to a season filled with love, laughter and good wine!