A Taste of California: Wine Pairings for a Perfect Friendsgiving

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, the season brings a unique celebration: Friendsgiving. It’s Thanksgiving without the family feuds—just great food, cherished friends, and, of course, outstanding wine.

This Friendsgiving, why not take your gathering to the next level with a taste of California in every glass? From Napa’s lush valleys to the rugged slopes of the Sierra Foothills, California’s diverse wine regions offer an array of flavors that can elevate every bite of your holiday feast. Let’s dive into the ultimate California-inspired wine pairings for your Friendsgiving celebration.

A Toast to the Starters: Bubbles & Bites

To kick off the feast, pop open a bottle of California Sparkling Wine. Nothing says celebration like bubbles, and California offers some incredible sparkling wines that bring the elegance of Champagne without crossing the Atlantic. Look for a Brut or Blanc de Blancs with notes of apple, citrus, and hints of toasted almond—perfect for pairing with appetizers like goat cheese-stuffed figs or a seasonal charcuterie board.

Wine Pairing Recommendation:

• Try a crisp 2020 Schramsberg Vineyards Blanc de Blancs Sparkling Wine, North Coast and a NV R.H. Coutier Brut Tradition Champagne, Grand Cru, France to pair with creamy cheeses and fresh fruit. This bubbly wine balances acidity with creaminess, creating the perfect palate refresher before the main event.

The Main Course: Turkey & Red Wine

No Friendsgiving is complete without the turkey, and there’s no better way to highlight this dish than with a classic Sauvignon Blanc or Proprietary Red Blend. Known for its light to medium body and balanced acidity, both complements the roasted flavors of turkey without overpowering them. It also, harmonize beautifully with turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

For those who prefer a bolder pairing, go with a Zinfandel from Lodi. This region produces full-bodied Zinfandels with dark berry flavors, hints of spice, and a slight smokiness—ideal for guests who love rich and complex wines. Zinfandel’s robust profile can hold its own alongside rich side dishes like herb-laden stuffing or even a spicy sausage dressing.

Wine Pairing Recommendations:

• For the traditional turkey pairing, opt for our Good Friends Wine Bundle which features the best of both worlds—a vibrant Sauvignon Blanc and a smooth Proprietary Red.
• For a bold twist, serve a 2022 Wildeye Winery Lodi Zinfandel. This wine’s intensity pairs well with spiced stuffing, roasted vegetables, and even a glazed ham if it makes an appearance.

Sides & Sonoma: A Versatile Chardonnay for the Feast

Chardonnay is a California classic, and the Chardonnays from Russian River Valley are versatile companions for many Friendsgiving side dishes. The creamy, buttery notes of an oaked Chardonnay pair seamlessly with mashed potatoes, green bean casseroles, and roasted squash. The wine’s smooth mouthfeel and hints of vanilla, citrus, and tropical fruits add complexity without overwhelming the palate, making it a fantastic choice for sides that lean toward buttery or savory flavors.

For a lighter take, choose an unoaked Chardonnay. These wines, also popular in Russian River Valley, are crisper and more fruit-forward, with green apple and pear notes that complement lighter dishes like roasted Brussels sprouts or a fall salad with apples and nuts.

Wine Pairing Recommendations:

• A 2020 Benovia Winery Chardonnay, Martaella Estate Vineyard, Russian River Valley enhances the buttery richness of dishes like mashed potatoes or creamy casseroles.
• We highly recommend our Chardonnay Bundle featuring Handley, Testarossa, and Le Vigne Chardonnay, from three unique AVAs.
• For a red and white pairing, try our Good Friends Wine Bundle.

Dessert Pairing: Pumpkin Pie & Friendsgiving Favorites

Friendsgiving desserts deserve something special: Riesling. Riesling brings balanced acidity and subtle fruit notes that beautifully enhance the warm spices in pumpkin pie, sweet potatoes, or apple crisp, creating a delightful finish to your Friendsgiving meal.

For a lighter pairing, Sauvignon Blanc adds a bright, citrusy contrast that complements fruity desserts like apple crisp or a berry tart. Its crisp acidity keeps flavors light and refreshing—a great option for those who enjoy a vibrant, refreshing wine.

Those looking for a richer choice can try Red blend. A full-bodied red blend brings deep berry notes and a hint of spice that pairs excellently with chocolate-based desserts or nutty pecan pie, enhancing the dessert's richness with smooth tannins.

Wine Pairing Recommendations:

• For a classic fall pairing, try 2022 Amos Rome Riesling Lake Chelan AVA, Columbia Valley WA with pumpkin pie or apple crisp.
• Open up a Yolo County Sauvignon Blanc to add a bright, refreshing note to apple desserts and for a bold option, Paso Robles Cuvée Red is a delightful match with chocolate or pecan pie, try both with our Good Friends Wine Bundle.

Wrapping Up with a California Cheers

Friendsgiving is all about savoring good company, delicious food, and remarkable wine. By bringing the best of California wine country to your table, you’re sharing not just exceptional wines but also a story of diverse terroirs, winemaking passion, and a taste of sunshine in every sip. So, gather your friends, raise a glass, and toast to an unforgettable Friendsgiving.

Explore Our Offerings

Ready to curate your own California-inspired Friendsgiving? Discover a range of premium wines from iconic regions like Napa, Sonoma, and beyond with The California Wine Club.

Whether you’re stocking up on crowd-pleasers or looking for something special to share, we have the perfect bottles to elevate your holiday table. Cheers to a delicious Friendsgiving filled with California’s finest!