The Super Bowl is the Budweiser of parties…all hail, the King of Football! But let’s be honest, many of us don’t want to guzzle brew all day and night long. And there is absolutely no reason to force yet another beer-only Sunday. Because, as I’ve said once or twice before–there is always room for wine.
Hosting a Super Bowl party is no easy task foodwise so beverage often becomes “any beer we can get enough of.” Call it a Sunday menu to outdo all other menus, comfort food on steroids, or simply a day to enjoy all things salty, spicy, greasy, creamy, meaty, and cheesy. Any which way, this holy day of sports calls for bold flavors, alternating sensations, and a spread to conquer all preceding spreads.
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So, I ask you… “Why not wine?”
I am often asked what are the best wines to have on hand for a gathering of friends, family, and food. Taking into account that we cannot possibly pair a wine with every dish on the table, there are a few go-to wine styles that will not only delight the palate, but will act as standout crowd pleasers as well.
Bubbles – yes bubbles. No, don’t wait for your team to win to pop open that bottle. That sparkler is a perfect pair for chips and dips, salty cheese trays, and anything and everything fried. Also a great aperitif, the effervescence of the wine scrubs the palate, allowing for the fresh, vibrant flavors of the day. And with plenty of sparkling wine options for under $20, you don’t have to risk unnecessary wagering money seeking out the world’s finest champagne.
Let the celebration begin early. I promise, it’s worth it.
Chandon Brut Sparkling Wine, California, $19.99
Dry Riesling – the ultimate food pairing wine. A touch of sweetness balanced with lively acidity, this white wine shows enough fruitiness to satisfy the tastes of a sweet wine drinker while staying racy and dry enough to not overwhelm the palate for those craving something crisp and clean. A happy complement to salsas, guacamole, and buffalo chicken dip, this wine truly shines with chicken wings and most any other other pub grub.
Kung Fu Girl Riesling, Washington State, $13.99
Pinot Noir – because we all need a red sometimes. The youthful, juicy style is a favorite among eaters and drinkers alike for its light and fruity qualities while retaining bold red wine notes and a light but firm structure. Avoid bigger reds as heavy tannins accentuate spice and can overpower many of the dishes that land on a Super Bowl table. However, the sweet earthiness of Pinot plays flawlessly with bacon, cured meats – even those 5-foot subs. It also makes for a warm duo with that large pot of chili, slices of pizza, and any slider concoction one could create.
Erath Pinot Noir, Oregon, $17.99
The above wines can be found at most local area Dierbergs stores.
Angela Ortmann (@STLwinegirl) is a food and drink professional, co-founder of Cork Dorks with Forks, and an equal opportunity imbiber.
