One of the most stressful elements of throwing a party -- outside of the preparation -- is trying to figure out what wine to serve guests. If you're dining on turkey, is white a must? Or can you serve red? And what the heck should you make of rose?
To help aid you in your entertaining this holiday season, we consulted the experts at the LCBO (Canada's largest liquor control board) and grabbed a list of the top 10 most versatile wines. From chardonnays that pair well with grilled goods to baco noirs that can be matched with turkey, this palate pleasing list of libations will help you win your guests' approval -- regardless of what else you're serving.
10 Wines That Go With Everything
Vineland Estates Semi-Dry Riesling VQA
This riesling offers a hint of sweetness, lively acidity and peach, apple, pear and citrus flavours that are natural partners to most appetizers and lighter meat dishes like turkey or ham. The fruity nature of this wine will temper the heat in spicier dishes but feel right at home with the whole range of traditional Thanksgiving fare.
Product Info: $13.95, 750 mL bottle
Malivoire Chardonnay VQA
A chardonnay offering a creamy-textured palate, balanced acidity and notes of citrus and ripe apple fruit that will easily deal with the deep flavours and textures of most dishes. The pleasant layer of oak also matches nicely to any smoky flavours originating from roasting or grilling and will stand up to any sauce or gravy.
Product Info: $17.95, 750 mL bottle
Cave Springs Indian Summer Select Late Harvest Riesling VQA
This local favourite offers a luscious palate, with lingering flavours of mango, pear, caramel apples and spice. The best of both worlds, it is balanced enough to drink on its own, yet offers enough intensity and rich, sweet flavours to match any dessert.
Product Info: $24.95, 375 mL bottle
Angels Gate Archangel Chardonnay Brut VQA
Made from 100% chardonnay in the Traditional Method, the toasty notes from sur lie bottle aging are magnificent with the roasted flavours of turkey and the smoky flavours of ham. Citrus, apple and peach flavours will complement all the fixings, while the sparkle refreshes the palate with each bite.
Product Info: $18.95, 750 mL bottle
Henry Of Pelham Cuvee Catharine Brut Rose VQA
The beautiful pink colour and dancing bubbles of this Traditional Method sparkling rosé will add a buzz to the holiday festivities. Crisp and elegant, this versatile partner will greet you at the door, stay with you for appetizers, and enhance the dinner whether its roasted turkey or scalloped potatoes.
Product Info: $29.95, 750 mL bottle
Eastdell Estates Rose VQA
The bright pink hue and flavours of cherry and red berries in this lively rosé complements turkey the same way that cranberries are a classic match; the herbal notes in the wine pair wonderfully with traditional sage stuffing.
Product Info: $11.95, 750 mL bottle
Creekside Cabarnet Shiraz VQA
Flavours of blackberry, black cherry, cocoa and spice are the perfect complement for a prime rib roast. Salt in the meat's seasonings and pan gravy will accentuate the fruit in the wine and act to soften its moderately firm texture.
Product Info: $16.95, 750 mL bottle
Cave Spring Pinot Noir VQA
Pinot noir's cranberry, cherry, earth and spicy notes enhance lighter meats like pork, or roasted turkey without overpowering. Cave Spring pinot is dry, with a structure and elegance that reflects Ontario terroir.
Product Info: $17.95, 750 mL bottle
Malivoire Gamay VQA
The black cherry and earthy notes of this gamay meld wonderfully with duck, and mirror the tangy, fruity flavours of the accompanying cherry chutney. Always a classic for traditional Thanksgiving dinner, this is one of the best examples of Ontario gamay which shows poise and depth.
Product Info: $17.95, 750 mL bottle
Staff Baco Noir VQA
The wild, dark berry fruit flavours of baco noir are underscored with herbal, smoky and earthy notes. Baco has the intensity to stand up to the characteristic gaminess of lamb or dark turkey meat and has a good seam of acidity which cleanses the palate.
Product Info: $14.95, 750 mL bottle