However wait, there’s extra. Mildly dissatisfied with limiting our Thanksgiving wine options completely to Pinot Noir, we pivot to 5 Zinfandels at quite a lot of value factors for Thanksgiving dinner. Zinfandel is at all times a very good name to pair with turkey, as a Zinfandel with decrease tannins gives a little bit of juiciness. Which, relying on who’s working level within the kitchen this yr, can completely run the chance of being sandpaper dry and overcooked. Its fruit-forward taste profile additionally enhances non-turkey major programs and seasoned facet dishes fairly effectively.
Under are 4 of our high picks, all out there at or underneath $50 on the time of publication (tariffs could have adjusted the costs), and all smart picks worthy of a spot on the desk with household or associates.
Stunningly advanced and filled with earthy notes on the nostril whereas kicking down the door with darkish fruit, cranberry and chocolate on the palate, it has extra dimension and depth than another choice on our checklist, and was one of the vital well-regarded Zinfandels of 2025. Right here’s the key about Sky’s Zinfandel: it will possibly compete with Zinfandels twice the asking value within the area. So in case you’re trying to up your sport and impress those that future in-laws who’re lower than impressed together with your exhibiting so far, this may assist rating some factors and make folks assume twice about secretly and not-so-secretly questioning your associate’s tastes. $50
In line with Christopher, this Sonoma Valley Zinfandel showcases a milder facet of the varietal, leaning into cranberry notes and delivering a tarter expertise than your customary fare. Nevertheless, don’t mistake this for some alcohol-infused model of cranberry juice: this has loads of complexity to fulfill even essentially the most refined palate, even whether it is paired with honey-glazed ham, or yam, or no matter else is closely glazed on the dinner desk. Price bringing if the corporate you’re maintaining is price paying the asking value. $44
Massive on each abv (15.9%) and taste, Robert reviewed this in 2024, however I took compiling this checklist as an indication to lastly open my bottle and take it for a take a look at drive with a plate of jambalaya. As Robert wrote in his overview, this continues to be “dangerously drinkable,” with notes of plum, cranberry, cherry cola, and milk chocolate masking the excessive alcohol content material. It is probably not the appropriate transfer if excessive alcohol content material is more likely to amplify feelings and discussions of tense matters at dinner, but when everybody’s in a jovial temper or in want of a robust nap after the massive meal, this may do the job properly. $38
This Paso Robles Zin delivers a sneak peek of the rest of the vacation season, with candy notes of chocolate and black cherry cordial properly integrating with gingery Christmas spices. Whereas this can be our price decide of the checklist, don’t be fooled by the worth tag. There’s no skimping on high quality, and it holds its personal properly. Uncork this in anticipation of the subsequent few weeks, and rejoice the survival of one other Thanksgiving. $25
Need assistance with one thing that isn’t a Pinot Noir or Zinfandel? Shoot us a line within the feedback, and we will present some options!
Further reporting to this text contributed by Robert Lublin and Christopher Null.
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