Thanksgiving is that time of year when we gather with loved ones, express gratitude, and indulge in a sumptuous feast. It's a time for sharing and celebrating, and what better way to enhance the experience than by pairing your Thanksgiving dishes with the perfect whiskies? Whether you're a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or new to the world of whiskey, we have a carefully curated selection of top-notch pairings that will elevate your Thanksgiving to a whole new level of culinary delight.

As you prepare to feast on a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, you'll notice an array of savory and salty dishes gracing your table. To harmonize the diverse flavors of your meal, we recommend starting with unfinished bourbons. These selections typically feature fruity and floral notes that provide a wonderful contrast to the savory elements of your feast.

1. Wild Turkey 101: This iconic bourbon is a fantastic choice to kick off your Thanksgiving whiskey journey for obvious reasons. Known for its rich flavors of vanilla and hints of dark cherry it provides a mid-level proof, making it an easy sipper that pairs wonderfully with your turkey and all the fixings.
2. Four Roses Small Batch: With its fruity and floral profile and lower proof, Four Roses Small Batch allows you to slow your ethanol intake during the long day of celebration. The balance of flavors in this bourbon complements the hearty dishes of Thanksgiving.
3. Bulleit Small Batch: Previously owned by the same company as Four Roses, Bulleit Small Batch shares similar flavor profiles, making it a solid choice for your Thanksgiving celebration. Its well-balanced notes of sweetness and spice go well with a variety of dishes.
4. Buffalo Trace (Mashbill One): This bourbon from Mashbill One offers a unique tasting experience. When young, it exudes sweet grape flavors, while older offerings (E.H. Taylor, Eagle Rare, Stagg, etc) showcase a delightful dark cherry note. These flavors are ideal for pairing with the salty and savory components of your Thanksgiving meal.
5. ANY MGP Bourbon: Products from MGP are known for their sweeter profile and high rye content. The spice in MGP bourbons is reminiscent of traditional Thanksgiving flavors, making them a natural choice to compliment your dinner. MGP's house brand is Remus, but there are countless non-distiller producers that source their whiskey from MGP. Some prominent examples are Smoke Wagon, Nulu, Barrel, Penelope, Stellum, OKI, and Smooth Ambler Old Scout. We would be derelict in our duties if we did not mention our own brand here, The Prideful Goat 6 Year Straight Bourbon.
   
   

After the main course, it's time to unwind and enjoy some post-dinner drinks that pair perfectly with your Thanksgiving desserts. Look for whiskies with a sweeter profile and prominent baking spice notes, as they will complement the sweetness of your post-meal treats. Here are some of our favorites:

1.  Angel's Envy Rye: This whiskey is a true gem, finished in rum casks that impart very sweet notes. The rye component adds the perfect amount of spice to create a delightful balance. While it's a bit pricier at around $80-$90 MSRP, Angel's Envy Rye is like dessert in a bottle and is well worth the investment.
2. Midwinter's Night Dram: If you can get your hands on this limited-edition whiskey, it's a special treat. This rare dram has notes of cherry, fig, dried orange peel, and baking spice. It's perfect for sipping alone or alongside a slice of pie.
3. Whistle Pig Piggy Back Alfa Romeo: The Limited Edition Alfa Romeo is a rye whiskey selected by the Alfa Romeo F1® Team Stake drivers. This Single Barrel is bottled at 96.77 proof, a nod to Valtteri Bottas' racing number, 77. It is finished with lychee and oolong tea, providing bright fruit components that pair exceptionally well with sweet desserts.
4. Penelope Toasted Rye: This rye is rich with spice notes, and the toasting process adds s'more-like flavors, including toasted marshmallow and melted chocolate. These qualities make it a delightful accompaniment to your post-Thanksgiving treats.
5. Basil Hayden Dark Rye: Instead of finishing, Basil Hayden Dark Rye is made by pouring a touch of port into the Rye whiskey. The result is a unique flavor that showcases dry, dark fruit notes, which pair exceptionally well with dessert.
   
   

Pairing whiskey with Thanksgiving dishes is an art that combines the flavors and characteristics of both the food and the spirit. Here are some additional tips to help you master the art of whiskey pairing for your holiday meal:

1. Consider the Flavor Profiles: Take time to understand the flavor profiles of both your whiskey and your food. Whiskeys with fruity and floral notes often complement savory dishes, while those with sweet or spicy elements are great with dessert.
2. Balance the Intensity: Ensure that the intensity of your whiskey matches that of the dish. A lighter whiskey is ideal for lighter dishes, while bolder whiskeys can stand up to heavier, more robust flavors.
3. Experiment and Discover: Whiskey pairing is subjective, so don't be afraid to experiment. Taste various whiskeys with your Thanksgiving spread to find the perfect match for your palate.
4. Share the Experience Make whiskey pairing a part of your Thanksgiving tradition by sharing your findings and experiences with family and friends. It can spark interesting conversations and create lasting memories.

As you prepare for Thanksgiving this year, consider adding a new layer of excitement to your traditional feast by pairing it with the perfect whiskies. Whether you choose a fruity bourbon to complement your savory turkey or a sweet rye to enhance your pumpkin pie, the right whiskey can elevate your meal to a truly memorable experience. Cheers to good food, great company, and the joys of Thanksgiving! 🥃🦃🍂 #ThanksgivingPairings #WhiskeySavors #HolidayCheers #BourbonRealTalk