More Perfect Thanksgiving Wines Under $20

Thanksgiving is a great time to share wine with family and friends. Whether pairing with your Thanksgiving feast, or washing down the leftovers while you take in some football, there’s something for everyone!

Turkey is typically paired with a dry white wine, but there are a variety of wines that pair well with a full feast (turkey, ham, and a wide range of sides).  Last year we shared a few of our favorite varietals under $20 (check out the full list) to share on Thanksgiving Day.  Here are more recommendations, all of which are also under $20 and can be found in your local supermarket, liquor store, or wine shop. 

Sparkling

A sparkling wine is a great pairing with any festive occasion.  This is a good starter as guests are arriving, or paired with the meal.  If serving with dinner, the key is to select a brut.  Dry sparkling wines pair much nicer with a turkey feast.  Our choice is Roederer Estate Brut.  A very balanced sparkling, with notes of floral, tree fruit, and light spice.  It scored 91 points from Wine Spectator, and retails at BevMo for $18.99

 

Sauvignon Blanc

If serving a white, you want to select a wine that is refreshing, tangy, and fruity. Sauvignon Blanc fits this bill perfectly as it is light and crisp, with grassy or herbaceous flavors.  Our pick is Simi Sauvignon Blanc.  It is bright and clear in color, medium-bodied with refreshing flavors of green apple and nectarines.  It is currently retailing at BevMo for $8.99 (a bargain!).  

Pinot Noir

The trick with reds is to select one that is not too tart or high in tannins (sorry cab lovers, today is not your day).  Light-bodied, more fruit forward pinot noirs pair nicely with a traditional Thanksgiving feast.  One of our favorite under $20 wine is Cycles Gladiator Pinot Noir.  This is an easy drinker, appealing to many.  Lots of red fruit flavors that pairs well with a variety of food.  It is currently retailing at BevMo for $9.99. 

Zinfandel

This is an excellent medium-bodied red with lots of intense, plummy, jammy flavors with splash of pepper.  Some of you may be familiar with Folie a Deux for their red table wine, Menage a Trois.  They also make a tasty Zinfandel.  This is a well-rounded, textured, juicy red wine.  It retails at BevMo for $12.99.

Happy Thanksgiving!