Thanksgiving is arguably the most American of all holidays, recognised all over the globe for its unique history. It was originally established to give thanks for a very good harvest: in particular, during the year 1621, the Pilgrim Fathers reached Plymouth, Massachusetts, aboard the Mayflower, an event that started a tradition that goes on since 4 centuries.

At that time, persecutions of this religious group had begun in England, as they were considered dangerous because they questioned the principles of the Anglican Church. 

For this reason, they decided to pack their bags and travel to the New World, bringing with them seeds of some of the crops they used to grow in Europe. However, the first harvest was not successful at all, so the Native Americans unexpectedly came to their aid: they taught them which foods to grow in those lands and how. 

Crops such as corn, and which animals to raise, such as turkeys, which are two ingredients among the protagonists of Thanksgiving's dinner. Thanks to the wise suggestions, the pilgrims were able to achieve a good harvest, and for this reason they decided to share a large meal with the Natives as a sign of gratitude.

Even if the tradition and the ingredients are, as we already mentioned before, the purest essence of the American spirit, it doesn’t mean that we can’t enhance their flavor with Carpineto ingredients! Quite the contrary, actually, as we will show you with some of our usual wine suggestions. 

The star of the show on every Thanksgiving’s table is unquestionably roast turkey, often stuffed with bread, herbs and vegetables, accompanied by gravy made from its cooking juices and mashed potatoes. Alongside the turkey can be sweet potatoes, baked or casseroled with marshmallows or pecans, and corn-based dishes such as cornbread or corn pudding. Cranberry sauce is also a must, adding a fresh and tart note.

Traditional side dishes also include green bean casserole, a gratin of green beans and crispy onions, and seasonal vegetables such as pumpkin and Brussels sprouts. Everything is accompanied more often than not by hot apple cider or a good bottle of wine.

The meal usually ends with classic American pies: pumpkin pie, made with pumpkin and spices; pecan pie, with pecans and syrup; and apple pie, a symbol of family tradition. Together, these dishes represent the richness and conviviality of Thanksgiving, a holiday that celebrates gratitude and the pleasure of being together.

To accompany such delicacies, we recommend our Dogajolo Rosso Toscana IGT 2022: perfect for turkey and red fruit sauces. Carpineto Dogajolo Rosso Toscana IGT 2022 is a young red, elegant, and structured wine made from Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and other types of red grapes. Individual grape fermentation gets blended in small wooden barrels to slowly complete both alcoholic and malolactic fermentation. 

The result is a wine of intense ruby red color with violet nuances. Fruity hints open the nose with cherry accompanied by spicy notes of vanilla and coffee. The palate is full but nonetheless smooth, well-structured. Ideal with meat dishes or game, pasta with meat sauces or mushrooms, and some aged cheeses.

In alternative, or together with our first suggestion, you can try Chianti Classico DOCG 2023 for a more structured pairing with savory side dishes. Carpineto Chianti Classico DOCG 2023 grows in the oldest production area between Florence and Siena, known as beautiful places. 

The grape types used are Sangiovese, Canaiolo, and other red varieties. The making way includes keeping the skins in the juice with temperature controlled fermentation. 

The wine stays in oak barrels for a short time before getting better further in steel or glass-lined cement tanks prior to bottling it. This gives a ruby red wine color going towards garnet with change. 

The smell shows clean and strong wine scents with flower hints, mainly violet ones felt clearly. It tastes smooth, salty, round, full and strong on the palate. Best served between 64 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

From Carpineto and to wherever you read in the world, especially the United States of America, we wish you a happy Thanksgiving with our special products!