For many years, I have embraced Thanksgiving as a time to gather with my chosen family, inviting anyone who needs a warm meal and companionship. My traditional spread includes the classic roast turkey alongside mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and both pecan and pumpkin pie, along with some adventurous preparations like paella over a wood fire.

This year, I’m adding a twist to the classic fare with Swedish meatballs made from ground turkey and sage, served over mashed potatoes, while a pecan pie will satisfy the dessert cravings. As I think about drinks to accompany this feast, the world of beer pairings comes to mind, particularly with my friends joining this year’s celebration. After a little taste exploration, I have chosen three exceptional beers that will complement my Thanksgiving meal beautifully.

1. Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown Ale

Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown Ale stands out for its earthy maltiness, making it an excellent match for turkey with crispy skin and stuffing. With hints of dried fruit, it also pairs wonderfully with cranberry sauce. This beer’s nutty flavor blends seamlessly with desserts like pecan pie and even complements the spices in pumpkin pie. At a moderate 5% ABV, it’s versatile enough to enjoy throughout the meal.
Buy: Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown Ale – $11.49 for a four-pack.

2. Lindeman’s Framboise

Lindeman’s Framboise serves as a delightful counterpoint to the richness of Thanksgiving dishes, akin to cranberry sauce. Its sweet, raspberry flavor combined with a hint of herbs complements herb-seasoned turkey perfectly. The beer’s fruity acidity provides a refreshing cleanse for the palate. Given its low 2.5% ABV, it’s a delightful option for every course of the meal.
Buy: Lindeman’s Framboise – $11.99 for a 750 mL bottle.

3. Mayflower Porter

Mayflower Porter comes highly recommended towards the end of the meal, especially alongside a slice of pecan pie. Its sweet and toasty notes, reminiscent of molasses, combined with deep flavors of dark chocolate and coffee, make it a rich experience akin to enjoying a mocha. With a 5.2% ABV, it is the strongest of the three, offering a strong finish to the festivities.
Find it in stores: Mayflower Porter.

What’s your favorite Thanksgiving beer? I’d love to hear your recommendations!