Thanksgiving Wine

We’ve reached that moment in the year where time seems to speed up. Suddenly Thanksgiving is just a few days away, with Christmas right around the corner. I love the holiday season and I typically embrace everything that comes with it. That being said, recently life has been markedly busy (anyone relate?). Between preparing for our biggest end-of-year auction here at Leland Little, caring for family, and trying to fight the endless tide of leaves taking over my yard (emphasis on trying…), I haven’t had much time to brainstorm about the impending Thanksgiving meal. Which is why I am very glad to fall back on solid, dependable tradition. When it comes to wine pairings for your Thanksgiving dinner, the internet is rife with delightfully fresh and unexpected suggestions for breaking out of the box. But I think there’s something to be said for the simplicity of a few classic, familiar, and undoubtedly delicious bottles amongst the casserole dishes, carving trays, and salad bowls on your table. Therefore, allow me to recommend three of my favorites that I am certain will dress up your celebration, complement your meal, and (most importantly) be a hit with your guests.

NV Guy Larmandier Cramant Grand Cru, Blanc de Blancs, Brut Zero $58

A great bottle of champagne is a no-brainer for any holiday celebration, and this Guy Larmandier Blanc de Blancs fits the bill perfectly without breaking the bank. From a classic producer, delightfully crisp and bracingly dry, it’s the ideal bubbly to hand your guests as they walk in the door. Whatever crispy, salty snacks you might have on hand to get the party going (bacon-wrapped dates or crispy cheese straws, maybe?), this Blanc de Blancs will match perfectly and get the party going!

2017 Mount Eden Vineyards Estate Chardonnay $60

When did classic California chardonnay go out of style? I’m making the case that it never did, and I’m submitting this 2017 Mount Eden Vineyards Estate Chardonnay as my star witness. Bursting with apple blossom, warm citrus, honeycomb, and spice, I can’t think of a better pairing for your classic Thanksgiving sides. Buttery mashed potatoes? Check. Pecan-streusel-topped sweet potato casserole? Check. Spiced cranberry sauce? Check. You get the idea. There are 364 other days of the year to drink hip, thought-provoking and deeply mineral whites from up-and-coming regions. On this day, make everyone happy and pull out a classic bottle of California Chardonnay.

2020 Jean Grivot Vosne-Romanee $135

I don’t think much needs to be said about the power of a great bottle of red Burgundy to make any evening better. Not to mention the fact that pinot noir is truly one of the most classic pairings with a Thanksgiving meal. The 2020 Jean Grivot Vosne Romanee comes from one of the great names in Burgundy and is packed with beautiful dark red and purple fruits, balanced by a hint of spice and a welcome but delicate earthiness. No red wine drinker I know would turn their nose up at this gorgeous bottle, and I think it rounds out our Thanksgiving trifecta perfectly.


Did one (or more) of these wines pique your interest? There are multiple ways to order with us! If you place your purchase through our online store, we’ll be happy to package and hold your bottles for you to pick up at your convenience. You can also email us and ask us to set aside any bottles you’re interested in picking up at a later date. If you have any questions or would like to make special arrangements, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at (919) 644-1243.


For pick-up before Thanksgiving: we will be open and happy to assist you tomorrow (Tuesday, November 21st) and Wednesday, November 22nd from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.