Wine Matching with Turkey Dinner: The Perfect Italian Wine Solution

Turkey dinners are a centerpiece of American Thanksgiving dinners, as well as a table centerpiece throughout the year.  However, finding the right wine to complement the flavors of turkey—and the trimmings– can be a daunting task. But there are some amazing wines to pair with November’s popular poultry choice, and here you can learn about why Italian wines are an excellent choice.

The Tricky Art of Wine Matching with Turkey
Matching wines with turkey can be a tricky task due to the bird’s nuanced flavors and various accompaniments that often grace the Thanksgiving or Christmas table. Unlike red meat dishes, turkey offers a lean and delicate flavor profile, making it imperative to find wines that enhance rather than overpower. Additionally, the wide range of side dishes, including cranberry sauce, stuffing, and vegetables, further complicates the selection process.

Italian Wines: The Perfect Complement
Italian wines are renowned for their versatility, complexity, and ability to pair effectively with an array of cuisines. This adaptability makes them an excellent choice when it comes to matching with turkey. Italian wines often boast vibrant acidity, which helps cut through the richness of the bird, and possess a diverse range of flavors and aromas that can complement the various components of a turkey dinner.  What’s more, there are perfect pairings of both red and white wines for your holiday table.  Each brings their own unique addition to the feast.

Red Wines: Elegance and Structure 

In terms of red wines, Italian options such as Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino, and Chianti Classico Riserva offer exquisite elegance and structure. Barolo, with its powerful tannins and notes of cherry, truffle, and rose, stands up well to the bold flavors of dark turkey meat. Brunello di Montalcino, known for its refined tannins, red fruit, and earthy undertones, pairs wonderfully with herbed turkey breast. Chianti Classico Riserva, characterized by cherry, spice, and herbal notes, is a versatile choice that complements both white and dark meat.

White Wines: Freshness and Complexity
When it comes to white wines, Italian selections such as Vermentino, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, and Soave Classico excel in creating refreshing and complex pairings with turkey. Vermentino, with its lively acidity and citrus, tropical fruit, and herbaceous flavors, provides a crisp counterpoint to the succulent bird. Vernaccia di San Gimignano, boasting notes of white flowers, pear, and almond, effortlessly balances the richness of the turkey. Soave Classico, with its minerality, stone fruit, and nutty undertones, complements the delicate flavors of white meat beautifully.

Finesse and Balance

Pairing wines with turkey requires finesse, as finding the right balance between the wine and the bird’s flavors can be challenging. However, Italian wines, with their incredible versatility and diverse range of flavors, offer an excellent solution for elevating your turkey dinner and delighting your guests.