Pinot Grigio and Turkey: A Match Made in Heaven?
Thinking about what wine to serve with your Thanksgiving turkey? Pinot Grigio might just be the answer! This light, refreshing white wine is a surprisingly versatile choice that can complement your holiday feast beautifully. Let’s dive into why Pinot Grigio is a great option and how to make the most of this pairing.
Why Pinot Grigio Works with Turkey
Pinot Grigio, known for its crisp acidity and subtle flavors, offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of turkey and the various side dishes that accompany it. Its delicate citrus and green apple notes won’t overpower the turkey’s flavor, but rather enhance it. Here’s why it’s a winning choice:
* **Light-bodied:** Pinot Grigio is light-bodied, meaning it won’t weigh down your palate during a heavy meal.
* **High Acidity:** Its acidity cuts through the richness of the turkey and gravy, cleansing your palate between bites.
* **Subtle Flavors:** The wine’s subtle flavors complement, rather than compete with, the various flavors on your Thanksgiving table.
* **Versatility:** Pinot Grigio pairs well with a wide range of side dishes, from stuffing to cranberry sauce to roasted vegetables.
Tips for Choosing the Right Pinot Grigio
Not all Pinot Grigios are created equal. Here’s what to look for when selecting a bottle to serve with your turkey:
* **Region Matters:** Italian Pinot Grigio, especially from regions like Alto Adige or Friuli, tends to be crisp and dry, making it an excellent choice.
* **Avoid Overly Fruity Wines:** Opt for a Pinot Grigio that’s more citrusy and mineral-driven, rather than one that’s overly fruity or sweet.
* **Consider the Vintage:** A recent vintage will typically offer the freshest flavors and highest acidity.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy your Pinot Grigio and turkey pairing, keep these tips in mind:
* **Chill it Well:** Serve Pinot Grigio chilled, ideally between 45-50°F (7-10°C).
* **Use the Right Glass:** A white wine glass with a slightly narrower bowl will help concentrate the wine’s aromas.
* **Don’t Overpour:** Fill the glass about one-third full to allow the wine to breathe and release its aromas.
Other White Wine Options
If you’re not sold on Pinot Grigio, here are a few other white wines that pair well with turkey:
* **Riesling:** Off-dry Rieslings can be a great match, especially if you’re serving sweet side dishes.
* **Sauvignon Blanc:** Its grassy and herbaceous notes can complement the savory flavors of turkey and stuffing.
* **Viognier:** This aromatic white wine offers floral and fruity notes that can add complexity to your meal.
Beyond White Wine: Exploring Red Wine Pairings
While white wine is often the go-to choice for turkey, some lighter-bodied red wines can also work well:
* **Beaujolais:** Its fruity and earthy notes can complement the turkey’s flavor without overpowering it.
* **Pinot Noir:** A light-bodied Pinot Noir with earthy undertones can be a sophisticated choice.
* **Zinfandel:** A lighter-style Zinfandel with bright fruit flavors can be a fun and festive option.
Ultimately, the best wine pairing is the one you enjoy the most. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect match!
**Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
* **Is Pinot Grigio too light to pair with turkey?**
No, Pinot Grigio’s light body and high acidity make it a refreshing and complementary choice for turkey.
* **What flavors in Pinot Grigio complement turkey?**
The citrus and green apple notes in Pinot Grigio enhance the turkey’s flavor without overpowering it.
* **Should I choose a dry or sweet Pinot Grigio?**
Opt for a dry Pinot Grigio to balance the richness of the turkey and side dishes.
* **What if I prefer red wine with turkey?**
Consider lighter-bodied reds like Beaujolais or Pinot Noir.
* **Does Pinot Grigio pair well with Thanksgiving side dishes?**
Yes, Pinot Grigio’s versatility allows it to pair well with a variety of side dishes, including stuffing, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables.
In conclusion, **does Pinot Grigio go with turkey**? Absolutely! It’s a fantastic and versatile choice that can elevate your Thanksgiving dinner. Cheers to a delicious holiday!