Find the Perfect Champagne Pairing for Each Thanksgiving Course  

Thanksgiving brings family, friends, and a glorious spread of food—and what better way to elevate the occasion than with a bottle (or two) of Champagne?

This year, Bureau du Champagne, USA, has put together this guide to help you explore different styles of Champagne to complement each stage of your Thanksgiving meal. With its versatility, Champagne offers an ideal pairing for everything from appetizers to desserts.

Here’s a guide to making the most of Champagne at your holiday table:

Brut Nature: Crisp and Refreshing for a Perfect Start

Brut Nature, the driest expression of Champagne, contains less than 3 grams of residual sugar. This bright, crisp style provides a wonderful aperitif or start to the Thanksgiving festivities.

Brut: Versatile and Classic for Appetizers

Brut Champagne, the most popular style, appeals to a wide range of Champagne drinkers. This Champagne style transitions seamlessly from appetizers into the main meal.

Late Disgorged: Rich and Complex for Full Flavors

For a Champagne that can truly stand up to the richness of a full Thanksgiving spread, consider a Late Disgorged style. Aged longer on its lees before being disgorged, this Champagne is more complex and richer. It pairs exquisitely with turkey, stuffing, and savory side dishes.

Rosé: Bold, Fruity, and Perfect for the Feast

Rosé Champagne, often made from Pinot Noir and/or Meunier grapes, adds a touch of color and a bit more body, making it a delightful companion to Thanksgiving fare. Its fruity and slightly fuller profile can stand up to the array of flavors on the holiday table.

Sec: Sweet for a Sweet Finish

For the final course, a Sec Champagne is an inspired choice. With residual sugar levels between 17 and 32 grams per liter, Sec is a semi-sweet style that pairs well with desserts that aren’t overly sweet or salty. Consider pairing it with a cheeseboard featuring aged varieties, or with fruit-based desserts such as pumpkin pie.

From the crisp Brut Nature to the festive Rosé, each style enhances a different aspect of the Thanksgiving experience. So, this holiday, pour a glass (or several) of Champagne, and let the bubbles bring joy and sparkle to every course. Cheers to a memorable Thanksgiving!