The Best Thanksgiving Wines

Choosing Thanksgiving wines that will complement the food and please everyone can be tricky, says Back Bay Grill general manager Adrian Stratton. A good rule of thumb is to look for wines that balance acidity with big fruit flavor. Here are some of his favorites.

Maine, Thanksgiving, Wine
From our November 2015 issue

Bubbly

Maine, Thanksgiving, WineBillecart-Salmon Brut Réserve Champagne

This is a very high quality Champagne that doesn’t carry the price markup of a big name like Moet Chandon or Vueve Clicquot.

White

Navarro Dry Gewürztraminer, California

A very versatile varietal, thanks to its aromatic floral notes.

Rosé

Domaine La Suffrene Rosé, France

Some of the most complex, powerful rosés in the world come from Bandol, and this wine is no exception. Intense fruity notes, yet remarkably dry.

Red

D-Cubed Cellars Zinfandel, California

The fruity richness of this Zinfandel will please any red-wine drinker, even while its balanced acidity prevents it from overpowering the food.

Spirits

Sweetgrass Winery & Distillery’s Rhubarb Smash

Made in Union with Maine rhubarb and elderberries, this liqueur is a nice accompaniment to dessert.

Check out our Ultimate Maine Thanksgiving Feast Guide

April 2025 cover of Down East magazine: A bouquet of poppies and beets.

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