By now you’ve realized that hosting Thanksgiving dinner is no easy feat. From crafting the perfect menu right down to the guest list, the idea alone can make the most poised person insane. But, relax—you got this.
The key to any successful holiday dinner party is preparation, and with Thanksgiving less than 24-hours away, we thought we’d tie up some of those loose ends by answering a few questions to ensure your Thanksgiving feast is the best one yet.
So, exactly which wines should I serve during my Thanksgiving meal?
Turkey and yams, cranberry sauce and stuffing, with so many different textures and tastes, it’s important to choose wines that are complementary to each bite. Although sparkling wines are extremely popular during the holidays, check out these red and white wine options that are sure to make your turkey day pop.
Do I really need a bunch of wine glasses at my dinner table?
Generally—no. If you are having more than one wine, you can simply “rinse” the glass by pouring a bit of the next wine you’re drinking into the glass, swirling it around and dumping it out!
What should I expect my guests to bring?
Nothing. If you’re hosting, don’t expect people to know what to bring, but at the same time, don’t be afraid to make small requests of your guests either.
Should I use a decanter during dinner?
Yes! We think so anyway. Pouring your wine into a decanter before you drink it allows a little air in to brighten up the aromas and fruit flavors in the wine. As an added bonus, there are really beautiful decanters out there that can add to your table décor. Just make sure to keep your wine bottle at the table to reference the wine info - and of course, if it’s our McBride Sisters Wines you can keep loving our gorgeous labels (if we do say so ourselves).
What temperature should my wine be prior to serving?
Not too warm or too cold! For reds, aim for below room temp but not refrigerator cold. If it’s at room temp, stick it in the fridge for 10 – 15 minutes (max). You can enjoy the wine as it warms in the glass and shows more of its fruit flavors. Conversely, white wines should be cold, but not to the point of freezing. Too cold of a temp will mask the aromas and flavor. So give your whites some time to warm up before you pour…then enjoy. Happy Thanksgiving!