Wine Pairing for Thanksgiving in Texas: Elevate Your Feast with Local Wines from the Texas Hill Country

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Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. In Texas, where culinary traditions run deep, Thanksgiving takes on a unique flavor with a blend of regional and family recipes. To enhance your Thanksgiving feast, why not pair your dishes with some exceptional Texan wines? 

Texas boasts a burgeoning wine industry, with local wineries producing some remarkable vintages that can complement the flavors of your Thanksgiving spread. In this article, we will guide you through the art of wine pairing for Thanksgiving in Texas, emphasizing local wineries and their offerings. 

The Texan Wine Renaissance

Texas is becoming increasingly known for its thriving wine industry. The diverse terroir of the state, coupled with skilled winemakers, has led to a surge in the quality of Texan wines. From the Texas Hill Country to the High Plains and the Gulf Coast, the Lone Star State's varied landscapes offer the ideal conditions for cultivating a wide range of grape varieties. It's no surprise that the state is now home to over 400 wineries.

Pairing Texas Wines with Thanksgiving Classics

History has proved to us that pairing food and wine is as universal as how the sky is blue. The flavors that Hill Country wines were, in part, shaped by the very sensibilities of Texan big tastes. Take Central Texas smoked beef brisket (What wine goes well with beef brisket?) as an example. The smokey taste blends well with a full-bodied taste that opens up with Vanilla and baking spices. And finishes with hunts of sweet blackberry and plums. 

Turkey

The centerpiece of most Thanksgiving tables, turkey, is a versatile meat that pairs wonderfully with a variety of wines. For a white wine option, consider a Texan Viognier from wineries like McPherson Cellars or Becker Vineyards. Becker Vineyards’ Viognier boasts floral and citrus on the nose that well-complements the white meat (What wine goes well with white meat?) of the turkey, while the subtle bump of acidity balances the richness of the gravy.

For those who prefer reds, a Texan Tempranillo from William Chris Vineyards or Pedernales Cellars is a fantastic choice. This grape's rustic and spicy notes will match well with the herbaceous flavors often found in Thanksgiving stuffing.

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce, a beloved holiday staple, finds its perfect wine companions in light, fruity, and slightly sweet options. A crisp Pinot Noir from Landon Winery offers a harmonious pairing, with its raspberry notes echoing the sauce's tartness. Alternatively, a Lost Oak Winery’s Sweet Moscato can balance the cranberry's tang, creating a delightful contrast.  

Sweet Potatoes

Whether mashed, roasted, or in a casserole, sweet potatoes are a beloved Thanksgiving side. To enhance the sweetness of this dish, pair it with a Roussanne from McPherson Cellars where an herbal bouquet best complements this holiday table spread classic. 

Pecan Pie

No Texan Thanksgiving is complete without pecan pie, and it deserves a wine that can stand up to its rich, nutty flavors. A Texan Tawny Port-style wine, such as the award-winning offerings from Llano Estacado, will make a delightful pairing. The wine's nutty and caramel undertones harmonize perfectly with the pecan pie's sweetness.

Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie is a classic Thanksgiving dessert, and a late-harvest Texan Riesling like those from Messina Hof Winery can be the perfect match. The wine's residual sugar paired with notes of citrus zest and honeysuckle, complements the pie's creamy pumpkin filling and spices, creating a sweet and spicy synergy on the palate.

Hilly Country Wineries for that perfect thanksgiving wine pairing

The Texas Hill Country, with its rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and superb wineries, is a true haven for wine enthusiasts. This region has gained a reputation for producing exceptional Texan wines, and among the many wineries, there are a select few that consistently stand out. We've compiled a list of 12 well-reviewed local wineries in the Texas Hill Country, each offering a unique experience and a range of exquisite wines. From Viognier to Tempranillo, these wineries are worth a visit, and we've included their addresses and contact numbers for your convenience. Explore the charm of the Texas Hill Country one sip at a time.

Becker Vineyards

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Becker Vineyards is celebrated for its Viognier, Tempranillo, and captivating lavender fields. It’s a great spot to unwind by enjoying locally crafted vintages coupled with a picturesque, serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Address: 464 Becker Farms Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Contact: (830) 644-2681

McPherson Cellars

Lubbock, Texas is home to McPherson Cellars where they are renowned to have contributed to shaping modern day Hill Country Wine-making. Its founder, Clint “Doc” McPherson started planting vines back in the 1960s. Where, current owner Kim McPherson, has brought their family’s expertise and is known for their Viognier, Tempranillo, and enchanting tasting rooms for wine enthusiasts to flock into.

Address: 1615 Texas Ave, Lubbock, TX 79401

Contact: (806) 687-9463

Fall Creek Vineyards

Meticulously tended vines yield grapes of exquisite character, embodying the essence of the region. The winemakers at Fall Creek Vineyards are true artisans, crafting wines that are an opulent symphony for the senses. Situated in the Texas Hill Country, this Texan Vineyards boasts a stunning landscape and is famous for its Grenache Rosé and Chardonnay.

Address: 1820 County Road 222, Tow, TX 78672

Contact: (325) 379-5361

William Chris Vineyards

A gem in the Hill Country, William Chris Vineyards offers outstanding Tempranillo and Mourvèdre wines in a beautiful setting. Their vineyards yield high-quality grapes that reflect the unique terroir of the region. With a commitment to sustainable farming practices and small-batch production, they produce a diverse range of wines, from rich reds to crisp whites, each embodying the character of Texas. Visitors can explore their online collection, featuring award-winning wines that showcase the essence of Texas winemaking.

Address: 10352 U.S. Highway 290, Hye, TX 78635

Contact: (830) 998-7654

Pedernales Cellars

Pedernales Cellars is a celebrated winery renowned for its commitment to crafting exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. With a family legacy dating back to the 1800s, this award-winning winery combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovation. Specializing in Spanish and Rhône varietals, Pedernales Cellars offers visitors a captivating journey through their meticulously maintained vineyards and a tasting experience that captures the essence of Texas wine culture.

Address: 2916 Upper Albert Rd, Stonewall, TX 78671

Contact: (830) 644-2037

Llano Estacado

Llano Estacado Winery, located in Lubbock, Texas, is a renowned winemaking haven celebrated for its commitment to producing exceptional wines. With a rich history dating back to 1976, this winery stands out as a pioneer in the Texas wine industry. Llano Estacado prides itself on crafting a diverse range of high-quality wines, from robust reds to crisp whites, showcasing the unique terroir of the Texas High Plains. The winery's dedication to innovation and tradition harmoniously melds in each bottle, offering a taste of Texan excellence.

Address: 3426 E FM1585, Lubbock, TX 79404

Contact: (806) 745-2258

Brennan Vineyards

Brennan Vineyards epitomizes the art of winemaking. With a rich legacy dating back to 2002, this family-owned vineyard crafts exceptional wines, blending traditional methods with modern innovation. Their dedication to quality is evident in every bottle, as they carefully cultivate grape varieties uniquely suited to the Texan terroir. Visitors are welcomed to explore the scenic estate, savor award-winning vintages, and gain insights into the passionate pursuit of winemaking, making Brennan Vineyards a destination for both connoisseurs and wine enthusiasts.

Address: 802 S Austin St, Comanche, TX 76442

Contact: (325) 356-9100

Landon Winery

Landon Winery is a wine haven renowned for its commitment to crafting exceptional wines. First established in 2005, Landon Winery combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovation, producing a diverse range of high-quality wines. From robust reds to crisp whites and sweet dessert wines, visitors can explore a variety of flavors in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The winery often hosts events and tastings, making it a beloved destination for both connoisseurs and casual wine enthusiasts.

Address: 2508 Lee St, Greenville, TX 75401
Contact: (903) 454-787

Thanksgiving in Texas is a time to celebrate both family traditions and local flavors. By pairing your Thanksgiving dishes with Texan wines from the Texas Hill Country, you can elevate your feast and add a touch of Texas pride to your celebration. Whether it's a white Viognier with turkey or a Tawny Port-style wine with pecan pie, the Lone Star State's well-reviewed wineries offer a wealth of options to make your Thanksgiving meal a culinary adventure. So, raise your glass and toast to a Texan Thanksgiving that's as rich in flavor as it is in tradition.