November 25, 2025 Plume Ridge Bottle Shop

Turkey Day Survival Kit: Wines You’ll Be Thankful For

Thanksgiving is all about good food, family, and gratitude... but let’s be honest, the right wine can make the day run a little smoother too. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd, navigating lively table conversations, or just sneaking in a quiet moment before dessert, here’s your lighthearted wine survival kit to carry you from appetizers to leftovers.

1. The Welcome Pour: Sparkling Wine

Kick off the day with bubbles. A crisp, refreshing sparkling wine or Champagne sets a celebratory tone and pairs beautifully with appetizers. Plus, it’s the perfect glass to hand Aunt Linda when she walks in the door, it’s hard to argue with fizz in your flute.

Plume Ridge Pick: Dumenil Blanc de Blancs Champagne, bright, crisp, and budget-friendly French bubbles.

2. The Main Event: Pinot Noir & Chardonnay

Turkey and all its trimmings can be tricky, but two tried-and-true companions are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. A silky Pinot brings bright berry fruit and gentle spice that complement turkey and stuffing, while a well-balanced Chardonnay offers just enough body and richness for mashed potatoes, gravy, and buttery rolls.

Plume Ridge Picks: Pierre Girardin Bourgogne Pinot Noir - elegant with red fruit and spice. For white, Keenan Spring Mtn Chardonnay - creamy yet balanced.

3. The Curveball: Zinfandel

For those who like something bolder, Zinfandel is your holiday MVP. With its juicy fruit, peppery kick, and crowd-pleasing style, it can stand up to sweet potatoes and cranberry sauce while keeping things festive.

Plume Ridge Pick: Turley Old Vine Zinfandel - rich, vibrant, and always a hit at the table.

4. The Dessert Sip: Sweet Wines

When the pies hit the table, reach for a late harvest Riesling, Moscato, or Sauternes. Pumpkin pie with Riesling? Yes, please!

Plume Ridge Picks: Tatomer Riesling - luscious and bright; Chateau Lafaurie Peyraguey Sauternes – Pure, focused and vibrant; La Morandina Moscato d’Asti - Orange blossoms, peaches, and apricots.

5. The Leftover Hero: Rosé

The next day, when you’re building that legendary turkey sandwich, rosé is your go-to. Fresh, versatile, and food-friendly, it’s the little burst of summer you didn’t know you needed after a long holiday.

Plume Ridge Pick: Love You Bunches Santa Barbara Rose - Light, refreshing, playful, and endlessly versatile.

No matter what’s on your table (or in your glass), the real survival kit is enjoying the company of loved ones. But the right bottles will definitely help you savor every bite and sip along the way.

Cheers, and Happy Thanksgiving!

Contributed by Blake Leland, Sommelier for Plume Ridge Bottle Shop.