For many, it’s an all day affair that marks the start of the holiday season, when the family gathers in front of the television to watch football or Macy’s annual parade. Yet more than anything else Thanksgiving is about sharing a meal and libations with family and friends. Which begs the question: what wine should you serve?

Mom’s turkey is, of course, the centerpiece of the holiday table - but it’s also a blank canvas when it comes to pairing with wine. The sides, however, are another matter. Sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, creamed corn, mashed potatoes, brussel sprouts, green bean casserole, sausage stuffing - the smorgasbord of sweet, creamy, green-tinged, and savory flavors may seem a nightmare for anyone deciding what wine to serve.

The key to a successful pairing? No need to spend an extravagant amount nor to fret about finding a wine for each side. Our rule of thumb: keep it simple. Seek out fresh, fruit driven wines with bright acidity and (for reds) lower levels of tannins. The fruit notes can stand shoulder to shoulder with the wealth of Thanksgiving flavors, and the acidity will refresh the palate. What’s more, such wines are sharply priced and easy to find.

Our wine picks? Here’s our baker’s dozen:

• Sparkling Wine (goes with everything!)
• Chardonnay (especially unoaked or lightly oaked versions)
• Viognier
• Rieslings
• Chenin Blanc 
• Sauvignon Blanc
• Rose
• Cabernet Franc
• Pinot Noir
• Zinfandel
• Beaujolais
• Grenache
• Malbec