The Best Wine To Pair With Your Thanksgiving Ham

How to choose your own Thanksgiving wine

When selecting a wine to pair with ham (or any dish, for that matter), the three key considerations are weight, flavor intensity, and flavor profile. Weight and flavor intensity are closely related; lighter wines, such as Italian Prosecco, are ideal for pairing with fish and seafood, like scallops, while richer wines, such as Petite Sirah, are better suited for red meats, including New York strip or ribeye steak. On this spectrum, ham falls between seafood and poultry, leaning more towards the beef and venison side than towards fish or poultry.

While the wine you select should align with this spectrum, it’s not the only factor to consider. The cooking method of the ham significantly impacts its flavor intensity and, consequently, the choice of wine. For instance, whether the ham is honey mustard glazed, smoked, or dry-cured—along with any enhancements you apply—will affect which wines pair best. For example, smoked ham pairs nicely with a richly colored rosé, while pinot noir complements your favorite pork dish for Thanksgiving. However, feel free to experiment or opt for a lighter wine, such as Riesling, if you’re looking for a versatile option that works well with both ham and turkey.

Why full-bodied wines are the way to go

According to the recipe, ham's substantial weight and diverse flavors firmly place it in the realm of foods that pair well with full-bodied wines. There are numerous options available in this category. Cabernet Sauvignon, as suggested by Master Sommelier Gillian Ballance, is one choice, but it's not the only one. Syrah and Malbec are also excellent options, and for those who are particularly adventurous with their food and drink pairings, Nero D'Avola should be on your radar. Its licorice-like notes create intriguing flavor contrasts with various ham dishes. If you prefer fruity wines, consider Shiraz, Merlot, or Valpolicella as well.

Full-bodied wines typically have an alcohol content of 13.5% or higher and offer a rich, substantial mouthfeel. These wines often feature dark, luscious fruit flavors such as cherry or black currant, along with the unique characteristics imparted by the grapes. These elements may influence your wine selection for dinner. For instance, if you prefer a wine with a lower alcohol content, you might opt for a medium-bodied option like Chianti or Bordeaux.

Additionally, full-bodied wines have another benefit during Thanksgiving. They pair beautifully with cheeses like Parmesan and cheddar. This means that the wine you enjoy while sampling the charcuterie board will seamlessly transition into the ham course when it's time to eat.