9 Wines From Trader Joe's To Bring To Thanksgiving Dinner
Almost time for yuletide greetings, y’all!
Okay so boom - we’re two days away from one of the biggest dinners of the year and I want to make sure you’re rocking with the best...wine that is! Last year, I put together a short list of wines that would be great additions to any Turkey Day table. This year, I’ve decided to expand that list by a few more wines and share bottles that are all under 20 dollars!
Now, pairing wines with Thanksgiving dinner can be a bit tricky because everyone’s menu is so radically different. From an array of sides like macaroni and cheese, stuffing (or dressing) and mashed potatoes, to the stars of the show like turkey, roast beef, chicken and ham, it can be a bit overwhelming to find the perfect wine.
But not to worry, I GOT CHU BOO! Since you know we’re out here ballin’ on a budget, here’s a list of nine wines you can pick up from Trader Joe’s right before Thursday’s big feast that won’t break the bank!
BUBBLES + ROSE
Brut Rosé (Reserve), $9.99 - I like to begin any function with some bubbles, and who doesn’t love rosé?! This blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier is light and fruit forward with flavors of strawberry and watermelon. It’s a great “welcome to dinner” wine that can be served during the appetizer phase of the afternoon or evening.
GIGI Prosecco DOC, $9.99 - For those of you who enjoy your bubbles dry like me, this Prosecco is a yummy choice that would pair well with any curated charcuterie board. If you want, you can also add a splash of orange or cranberry juice to help cut the acid.
Cotes Des Rosés, $14.99 - Newsflash: rosé isn’t just for the summertime! This is one of my favorite rosé wines that’s a blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah, this wine is very floral, fruity and would pair well with a stinky cheese like Blue or Gorgonzola, or a fish dish.
WHITE
Casal Garcia, $6.49 - Portuguese table wine to the rescue! This Vihno Verde (which literally translates to ‘green wine’) is fresh, fizzy and citrusy. If you’re looking for the perfect pairing for this wine, consider a first course salad, grilled potatoes or pork tenderloin if it is your meat dish of choice.
Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc, $10.99 - The thing I love about this light-bodied white wine is that it is extremely fruit forward and refreshing. Because this one is from New Zealand, passionfruit and pineapple are going to take the lead, and give you a full mouth feel. Pair this with chicken or seafood dishes.
Joel Gott, $13.99 - An unoaked California Chardonnay? Yes, I put this on the list because I’ve come to learn that not all Chardonnays taste like butter that goes on top of movie theater popcorn. Because this one is unoaked, it is going to be lighter with flavors of white peach, papaya and honey and will pair with the stuffing, baked salmon, macaroni and cheese, and green bean casserole.
RED
Le Grotte Lambrusco Reggiano ($4.99) - If you’ve been following my wine journey for a while, then you know I am a big fan of this sweet, fizzy and chillable Italian red wine. Your Honey Baked Ham will be perfect for this lovely gem.
Beaujolais Nouveau ($9.99) - Even through Beaujolais Nouveau Day was officially last Thursday, I’m almost certain that there are still bottles available for purchase! But this light-bodied pick is a fun one that the whole family will enjoy, and will pair best with roasted turkey, chicken, or duck with some yummy cranberry sauce on the side.
Cabernet Sauvignon (Grand Reserve) $12.99 - My main thang Cab Sauv is going be more than likely pair with the main attraction: the bird! If your family is like mine, turkey isn’t the only meat on the table - so this will also pair well with roast, lamb or any other grilled meat that your heart desires.
DESSERT
Porto Morgado, $6.99. You honestly can’t go wrong with serving up a port for dessert. Whether you’re enjoying a slice of pecan pie, pound cake or the corner piece of peach cobbler, this port wine from Portugal is a dark, rich and thick Tawny port that will leave you with all of the autumnal fuzzies.
What are some wines that you’re looking to bring to Thanksgiving dinner? Tweet me or post it to your Instagram story with the hashtag #WineWithChas.
I hope you and your family have a happy and healthy holiday weekend!
