Thanksgiving is all about the food and the giving of thanks of course, but that doesn't mean cocktails aren't just as crucial to the November feast. A great cocktail can make massive dinners with family a bit more bearable and a good wine can make the long hours you labored over dinner completely worth it. A well-rounded drink menu will ensure that all your guests have access to something they enjoy.
Wine is just as crucial to Thanksgiving as that big ol' turkey and if I'm being honest, I'd much rather have the wine than the turkey. Due to all the flavors in the Thanksgiving feast, it is best to stick with a wine list that is mild and conducive to pairing well with many tastes. A nice mix of red, white and a sparkling wine will carry you through the prep process all the way to dessert.
Pinot noir - This wine is generally light, fruity but not sweet and flavorful. Consider this your crowd pleaser. Most wine drinkers will be content with this whether they are sommeliers in the making or just the occasional wine drinker.
Zinfandel - We're talking red zinfandel, not the pink stuff. Zinfandel is more full-bodied and often has a peppery bite to it. It will hold up well to all the flavors from the savory taste of the turkey to the sweet taste of the sweet potato casserole.
Sauvignon blanc - Sauvignon blanc is light and crisp with a blend of citrus and earthy flavors which pairs well with savory dishes like turkey or stuffing.
Pinot grigio - Much like the pinot noir, this white variety is a pretty safe bet among a range of wine tasting palates. The light flavor of this wine means it won't compete with the more distinct flavors in your feast like garlic and onion.
Sparkling wine - A good sparkling wine or Champagne will make your Thanksgiving dinner feel like a true celebration. Sparkling wines are very versatile and pair well with turkey and other Thanksgiving staples. The difference between Champagne and sparkling wine is essentially where the grapes come from, so you can opt for either one. Often times sparkling wine is less expensive than those labeled Champagne.
A few festive cocktails are a good option to serve before dinner while guests are mingling, cooking or snacking on appetizers. You may have a few guests who do not drink wine, so offering a few other options will keep everyone happy and relaxed.
From the drink artisans at Cascal comes this festive and fruity cocktail. It is perfect to put the person at ease that has to give the toast or to make everyone else feel less awkward when the toast maker inappropriately airs family drama.
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What every Thanksgiving needs is a little tequila and until now you'd be hard-pressed to find this spirit at your feast. The margarita is typically reserved for the summer months, but a little pumpkin makes this cocktail recipe favorite perfect for fall.
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