10 Local Long Island Drinks for Thanksgiving

With drinks just as with anything else, as the old saying goes often it will be different strokes for different folks. To use another cliché, finding one size that fits all isn't the easiest task, especially when dealing with a family-full of taste and preferences.

But some folks like suggestions.

So with Thanksgiving coming up, one suggestion many may be seeking is what kind of fresh local beer and wine to pair with Thursday's meals. 

Michelle Rebentisch of Empire State Cellars provided some suggestions of local wine. For those looking for some local craft beer, we sought some suggestions from beer blogger Niko Krommydas.

Wine:

• 2010 Anthony Nappa Luminous, $17.95 - Rebentisch suggests a semi-dry to dry riesling, as a touch of the wine's sweetness – though not too much – balances out the cranberry sauce on the table.
• 2008 Lenz Winery Gewürztraminer, $19.95 - Floral notes and a spicy finish on this style provide another option for the white wine fans out there.
• 2010 McCall's Farm Vineyard Pinot Noir, $29.99 - This lighter-style of red is a popular one on Thanksgiving. McCall's 2010 offers a smokiness that blends well with game such as turkey.
• 2009 Wölffer Estate Vineyard Cabernet Franc, $24.99 - A year Rebenticsh described as "not exceptionally big" as far as harvests go, this vintage well-rounded red stops short of being too full bodied.

Beer: 

• Greenport Harbor Brewing Company, Leaf Pile Ale - Brewed with cinnamon, ginger, allspice and nutmeg, this is a beer for the autumn season without being too heavy before a meal.
• Rocky Point Artisan Brewers, Fresh Hop Pils - On tap at Crazy Beans in Miller Place, this beer brewed with local Wading River hops is a crisp brew to have with some appetizers before you get into the full course.
• Southampton Publick House Saison Deluxe - Southampton Publick House brews are available throughout Long Island, though this may be harder to come by. This spiced saison lends itself to most anything on the table. 
• Long Ireland Beer Company, Black Friday Imperial Porter - This special release comes out around the holiday season, and with more chocolate notes in this year's recipe, is best to enjoy with dessert.
• Port Jefferson Brewing Company, Rumpkin - Aged rum-soaked oak barrels, this spin on PJBC's pumpkin-style Boo Brew is on tap at the brewery for a limited time. Save for the evening football games.

Hard Cider:

• Peconic Bay Winery, Old Tom Cider - Rebentisch suggests this hard cider, blended with ginger, molasses and orange, for dessert. On sale at Empire State for $13.99.

What local food or drink will you be having this Thanksgiving?