Exploring The History of Wine at American Thanksgiving

Exploring The History of Wine at American Thanksgiving

ByCristal G, WSET3 Advanced, Wine & Spirits Hours Last uncorked on

Exploring the history of wine at American Thanksgiving is more complex than you might think. It's a tale intertwined with evolving traditions, changing tastes, and the growth of the American wine industry. From the earliest Thanksgiving feasts to modern-day celebrations, wine's presence has been a fascinating journey, encompassing everything from the preferred beverages of the Pilgrims to the rise of wine in American colonies. Let's explore how wine has become a staple on Thanksgiving tables across America.

Early Thanksgiving: Not a Wine Affair

It is highly unlikely that wine was featured as part of the first Thanksgiving celebrations. The Pilgrims, arriving in Plymouth in 1620, primarily drank beer, cider, and water. Drinking wine was a luxury, and was mostly imported from Europe.

It wasn't readily available. There was little appreciation for locally grown grapes, which were often replaced to grow more life-sustaining foods. Early American wine production focused on fortified, sweeter wines, occasionally appearing in Thanksgiving desserts.

The Rise of Wine in America

By the 18th century, attitudes began to change. American viticulture took root, especially in California, with over 3,500 wineries. Some domestic wines found a place at Thanksgiving alongside dishes like mashed potatoes and roasted turkey.

However, beer, cider, and spirits remained dominant. Thomas Jefferson was a wine enthusiast, who championed wine's health benefits over spirits, influencing Thanksgiving dinner and wine pairing perceptions even up through later presidencies such as John Quincy Adams. The popularity of sparkling wine and other wines is due in part to early proponents like Thomas Jefferson.

According to the LA Times, wine during the Colonial period was not prevalent. This further cemented its place in American Thanksgiving history and on the Thanksgiving table.

The 19th and 20th Centuries: A Gradual Shift

Domestic wine production expanded during the 19th and 20th centuries, although quality varied. Many Americans remained unenthusiastic about local Thanksgiving wines.

However, European immigrants brought greater demand, forever impacting The History of Wine at American Thanksgiving. East Coast wineries, like the Brotherhood Winery (established in 1839), offered new Thanksgiving meal pairings for this American holiday.

Modern Thanksgiving: Wine Takes Center Stage

Exploring The History of Wine at American Thanksgiving

Wine became a Thanksgiving fixture in the late 20th century. American winemaking improved, rivalling imports in taste and value. A flourishing industry produced excellent Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Cabernet Sauvignons.

Today's diverse American wines ensure that wine at Thanksgiving continues its rise in prominence for the Thanksgiving meal. Many wine regions contribute to this vast selection for the Thanksgiving table. A wide selection of red wines is now a staple on many tables.

Pairing Wine with Thanksgiving Dishes

Thanksgiving presents a complex flavor profile. The search for the right wines can greatly affect enjoyment of a meal including cranberry sauce or sweet potatoes and selecting complementary Thanksgiving wines enhances the feast.

Roasted turkey pairs well with light-bodied red wines like Pinot Noir or crisp Sauvignon Blanc. The ever-popular Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel offers complexity for dishes like stuffing, complementing many traditional Thanksgiving dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with herb-filled stuffing.

Side dishes introduce more pairing options for Thanksgiving. Cranberry sauce's tartness contrasts with aromatic Gewürztraminer or Riesling. Creamy mashed potatoes suit Chardonnay, Viognier, or Pinot Grigio.

DishWine Pairing
Roasted TurkeyPinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc
StuffingCabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel
Cranberry SauceGewürztraminer, Riesling
Mashed PotatoesChardonnay, Viognier, Pinot Grigio
Sweet PotatoesLate Harvest Riesling, Gewürztraminer

FAQs about The History of Wine at American Thanksgiving

What is the traditional wine for Thanksgiving?

There isn't one traditional Thanksgiving wine, although Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay are common choices. The range of red wines at Thanksgiving is seemingly limitless.

However, Thanksgiving wine history continues to evolve as the perfect wine Thanksgiving continues its evolution.

Was Wine Served at the First Thanksgiving?

Wine was likely absent from the first Thanksgiving table. The first Thanksgiving probably featured beer, water, cider, and perhaps local fruit cordials.

What wines are enjoyed at Thanksgiving?

Modern Thanksgiving embraces diverse wines. From bold reds to crisp whites, rosés, dessert wines, and sparkling wines, choices are eclectic. It's a good idea to have a pinot gris or other dry white wine served chilled alongside some options of red wines.

When did wine become popular in America?

American wine gained popularity mid-to-late 20th century. Appreciation continues growing with rising quality among domestic and imported labels. Thanksgiving dishes are complimented well by wines from many regions including Willamette Valley, or Russian River Valley wines from a producer like Merry Edwards.

Smaller wineries often outshine older choices. Wine Spectator offers American-style Thanksgiving selections, from Chappellet Sauvignon Blanc to A.R. Lenoble Champagne.

Conclusion

The History of Wine at American Thanksgiving mirrors America's story. Thanksgiving wine showcases America's diverse bounty and varietal excellence from humble beginnings to today's appreciation. It rivals established global wine traditions.

So, raise a glass of your favorite beverage to celebrate American culture and legacy on this special day. Cheers.

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