Thanksgiving is a time to gather, enjoy good food, and share memorable moments with loved ones. For many, selecting the right drinks and finding creative ways to use leftovers can enhance the holiday experience. In a recent discussion, Emily Jashinsky welcomed Rachel Bovard, a certified sommelier, and Inez Stepman, a legal analyst and cocktail enthusiast, to share their expertise on wine pairings and festive cocktails.
Rachel Bovard, known for her extensive knowledge in the wine industry, recommends starting your Thanksgiving with a glass of Champagne. For those who prefer red wines, she suggests Pinot Noir, Burgundy, or Beaujolais. These reds complement the traditional flavors of Thanksgiving. When it comes to white wines, Rachel’s choices include White Burgundy, Chardonnay, and Off-Dry Riesling. For a sweet ending, Tawny port and Sauternes are excellent dessert wines.
Inez Stepman adds a unique twist to the Thanksgiving menu with her cocktail recommendation, the “Flannel Shirt.” This cocktail is perfect for large gatherings and includes Scotch, Apple Cider, Amaro Averna, fresh lemon juice, brown sugar simple syrup, allspice, and bitters. The combination of these ingredients creates a warm and inviting drink that pairs beautifully with the season’s festivities.
After the feast, there are often plenty of leftovers, especially turkey. Inez offers an innovative recipe that transforms leftover turkey into a gourmet dish. Her recipe includes cranberries, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, thyme, honey, salt, pepper, and goat cheese. These ingredients come together to create a flavorful dish that’s perfect for the days following Thanksgiving.
Whether you’re a seasoned host or new to Thanksgiving preparations, these expert tips from Rachel Bovard and Inez Stepman can help elevate your holiday experience. From selecting the perfect wines and crafting delightful cocktails to creatively using leftovers, this guide has you covered.
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