Nov. 20, 2023

This paid piece is sponsored by JJ’s Wine, Spirits & Cigars.

Whether you’re hosting or arriving as a guest to a holiday dinner in the weeks ahead, the right bottle of wine in hand definitely can help complete the meal.

If you’re like us, you’ve spent your share of time in the wine section at JJ’s Wine, Spirits & Cigars, likely asking owner Tom Slattery for a recommendation.

While you can still stop in and consult directly with the JJ’s team, we had Slattery do a digital guide to wine at the holidays. Bookmark it for Thanksgiving and the holiday dinners to come!

The Do’s

• Do buy wine you enjoy.

“Don’t be so eager to pair this with that or worry about what someone will like or won’t like,” Slattery said. “Ultimately, you will be stuck with the leftovers, so be sure to have what you want at the end of the day.”

The exception to this rule: Grandma.

“Have Grandma’s favorite wine on hand no matter what you prefer,” Slattery said. “It’s worth it, and she deserves it.”

• Do seek out wines that fit your budget.

“We have a ton of great wines to fit all budgets,” Slattery said. “No need to spend a small fortune to impress your kid’s girlfriend’s parents. They will be happy with whatever you put in front of them.”

• Do take advice from the pros.

Slattery and the team at JJ’s understand that tastes are individual and are ready to help.

“Come in armed with information about what you are serving and we will do our best to fill your cart with items we know you will enjoy,” he said. “Same goes for cocktails and beer!”

The Don’ts

• Don’t try to pair your wine with only the protein.

“There is so much going on with your plate that when you try to pair the perfect wine for turkey, you will often conflict your taste buds when it comes to the cranberry sauce, yams and mashed potatoes,” Slattery said.

“This is where our expertise can be put to work when you tell us your menu.”

• Don’t overspend.

“You don’t need to spend a lot to get a great wine but also don’t let that stop you from putting some good stuff out either,” Slattery said. “We have over 2,000 wines to choose from at JJ’s!”

• Don’t just grab wine at the grocery store or big-box store because you are there.

“I know it gets busy this time of the year, but taking a few extra steps to help out a locally owned small business hit some goals this holiday season is a reward in itself and well worth your effort,” Slattery said. “We certainly want you to shop with us, but if it’s not us, make sure it’s another ‘mom-and-pop’ shop!”

Tom’s tastes

What would Slattery suggest on a Thanksgiving table?

“I am a big fan of versatile wines when it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, so I always lean in towards those wines that suit your personal palate when making recommendations but maybe something a little different than what you pour for your daily drink,” he said.

For instance, if you like whites, consider Vouvray.

“That is tops on my list for a Thanksgiving white wine,” Slattery said.

“The Marc Bredif or Chateau de Montfort would be great selections. You could also try Pine Ridge Chenin-Blanc/Viognier. It’s a very similar style to the Vouvray wines but slightly less acidic and more appealing to different palates.”

Still committed to pairing your white wine with turkey? Slattery’s choices would be an unoaked chardonnay like Mer Soleil Silver or a Chablis from France.

Looking for a sweeter wine? Got with an Alsace riesling or Gewurtztraminer.

“You will be surprised how well the acidic components in these wines work with your plate and still have a degree of sweetness,” Slattery said.

If your preference is for reds, Slattery suggests a zinfandel or hearty red blend for Thanksgiving dinner.

“The wines tend to be less complex and acidic, so they pair well with most of what is going on on your plate,” Slattery said.

“If you are looking for a specific pairing for turkey, I would suggest an Oregon pinot noir or Burgundy from France. If you are doing something different for Thanksgiving like a smoked brisket or other red meat, lean in towards California cabernet or an Italian big red like Chianti Classico or Brunello. If you really want to get bold, go for an Amarone, but they tend to be a bit more pricey.”

Serving a large group? There’s always Beaujolais Nouveau. This is a no-frills red wine that’s priced right for large groups.

“This year’s Georges DuBoeuf Beaujolais Nouveau is quite tasty, and I am certain would be enjoyed by everyone at your table,” Slattery said.

“Just some extra advice though: If you’re serving red, make sure that the couch is clear for landing before the tryptophan sets in. Red wines and turkey do cause sleepiness after dinner and a good excuse to avoid the dishes.”

Shop JJ’s from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 8 p.m. Sunday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday.