Top 5 Game Day Appetizers And Wine Pairings

Are you wondering which wines go best with popular game day appetizers? While wine might not be the obvious beverage of choice while watching football, we’re here to tell you why it is a great match for the salty, cheesy, and spicy snacks typically served during the game. So kick back, and let your wine drinking football fans enjoy these football appetizers, wine and cheese pairings.

1. Chicken Wings and Riesling

Known for being arguably the most popular game day snack, it’s hard to believe how well  chicken wings pair with wine. Wings come in a variety of flavors, but the most common flavor – Spicy Buffalo –  happens to pair perfectly with a slightly sweet Riesling. Riesling has just the right amount of tannins to compliment the buttery spice in the wing sauce.  As you wait for the game to start, consider trying this fun duo.  

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2. Mozzarella Sticks and Sparkling

Cheese is a staple in any wine pairing, so we couldn’t overlook mozzarella sticks in our top 5 list! While really any wine would pair well, a sparkling wine is a great choice. The bubbles help break down the fat while the aromatic notes typical of a sparkling wine deliciously compliment the crispy cheese stick. Your guests will be blown away by this unexpected combination.

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mozzarella sticks

3. Pizza and Cabernet

Ordering a few pizzas is an easy choice for the big game, and finding a bottle of red to go with your pies is also a pretty simple task. A juicy fruit-forward Cabernet Sauvignon pairs extremely well with a classic cheese or slightly salty pepperoni pizza. This medium-bodied grape plays to the acidity of the tomato sauce and is a great combination to the mild mozzarella cheese typically piled on top of a traditional thin crust. Pour yourself a glass and enjoy your slice while watching the next down!  

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4. Spinach and Artichoke Dip and Rosé

Spinach and artichoke dip tends to be airy and delicate, but after some time, the flavors may become repetitive. A versatile Rosé with hints of lemon and herbs is the perfect choice for this appetizer – the bright and crisp flavors found in Rosé help add depth and interest to each bite. Watch the dip (and bottle!) disappear when you serve this winning combination.

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5. Popcorn and Chardonnay

Popcorn, a favorite snack of many, is a light and easy halftime snack that pairs surprisingly well with a glass of Chardonnay. The corn brings out the nutty flavors in Chardonnay, while the richness of the wine compliments the buttered popcorn taste. Reach for this heavier bodied white when serving a fresh bowl of popcorn to watch the halftime show!

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Explore The Cellar Collection Difference

At The Wine Cellar Group, we source affordable boutique-style wines from family-run vineyards all over the world. We focus on bringing deserved attention to lesser-known, premium quality wines. If you want to try one of the unexpected food and wine pairings listed above, check out our assortment of over 500 wines online, or visit us in one of our 12 stores nationwide.

One Comment

  1. Sula Vineyards-Reply
    February 18, 2022 at 5:05 am

    Oh, popcorn and Chardonnay, already feeling the temptation. Chardonnay pairs up best with any cheese. Good post – https://sulavineyards.com/

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