Fort Ross Vineyard

Thanksgiving the Sonoma Coast Way

Thanksgiving dinner calls for a whole range of classic dishes, inspired by fall harvest. This year, we've found some modern twists on your favorite Thanksgiving recipes, as well as how to pair them with Fort Ross Vineyard wines.

1. Butternut Squash Tarte Tatin

Suggested pairing: 2017 Mother of Pearl Chardonnay

Photo & recipe curtesy of Bon Appétit

Roasted squash is a mainstay of the Thanksgiving spread. In this modern twist on the tarte tatin (usually made with apples), the rich creaminess of butternut squash is enhanced with a touch of sweetness, and cinnamon. With the final touches in the oven, it gains extra toastiness & spice. Similar flavors can all be found in our 2017 Mother of Pearl Chardonnay. Toasty oak and baking spice along with a round, creamy mouthfeel will meld harmoniously with this sweet-and-savory tart.

2. Red Wine Cranberry Sauce

Suggested pairing: 2017 Bicentennial Pinot Noir or 2014 Pinotage

Photo & recipe curtesy of the Washington Post

Add a little lift to this Thanksgiving-must by adding wine. We recommend using our 2017 Bicentennial Pinot Noir to boost the red fruit flavors, or our 2014 Pinotage to add more spice and enhance the citrus flavors. In either case, this is the ideal recipe for those who enjoy a glass or two while cooking - a splash in the sauce, and a bigger splash in the glass!

3. Grilled Brussels Sprouts with Chanterelles

Suggested pairing: 2017 Stagecoach Road Pinot Noir

Photo & recipe curtesty of Bon Appétit

With bacon and Chanterelle mushrooms stir fried in with the Brussels sprouts, this Thanksgiving side dish gets an extra layer of umami and richness. Our pick for this one is the 2017 Stagecoach Road Pinot Noir; with a fuller body and savory, earthy notes, it will pick up the umami notes in the mushrooms. Layers of spice and red fruit will add some freshness to the dish as well, encouraging the nuances of flavors to come through in the wine & the food.

4. Cider-Brined Turkey with Star Anise and Cinnamon

Suggested pairing: 2014 Reserve Pinotage

Photo & recipe curtesy of Epicurious

No Thanksgiving centerpiece is complete without the turkey. This brining technique helps to flavor the interior meat, adding complex nuances in the form of spice, umami, and a lift of citrus. Our 2014 Reserve Pinotage displays earthy notes along with truffle and dried floral notes that will mingle with these spices. Good acidity plus pomegrante and citrus notes balance the wine, and highlight the brighter elements of this brine. 

These four ideas for modern twists on Thanksgiving dinner are delicious ways to try something new this year. Enjoy!