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Written by Angela Ann
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Tuesday, 27 January 2009 05:50 |
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Beer seems to be the traditional adult beverage of choice for most Super Bowl parties. But with more and more Americans drinking wine these days, I think it’s time to tweak that tired, old tradition and throw some vino in the mix.
Some of you may think wine is too refined to be consumed with greasy Buffalo wings. Ridiculous! You can drink wine with just about anything.
Others of you may wonder, “What wine should I serve with hot dogs or chips?”
Not to worry, I consulted a wine expert with that very question and received some excellent wine pairing advice for your next Super Bowl shindig.
So what do Marilyn Monroe and a bunch of hungry/thirsty football fans have in common? How about Champagne and potato chips!
Wine Consultant, Elaine Smith reminded me of the scene in the classic movie, “The Seven Year Itch” where Monroe’s character shows up at her neighbor’s apartment with Champagne and a bag of chips. Smith says the two are an awesome combination for any gathering. You can also use sparkling wine.
Smith also enthusiastically added that Grenache and nachos are a wonderful combination. She explained that Grenache is a very easy drinking wine. She referred to it a “sophisticated” Merlot. Grenache is the second most widely planted wine grape in the world, but its popularity hasn’t caught on in the U.S.
Buffalo wings are a little harder to pair. Smith explained that “sweet” and “hot” are enemies of wine. But she suggested an off-dry Cava from Spain with Buffalo wings. Cava is Spain’s version of a sparkling white wine. It’s called “Cava” for the caves the wine is aged in. Of course you can probably substitute the sparkling wine or Champagne you’re pairing with the potato chips.
If you plan to throw some beef on the grill or serve sliders during your Super Bowl gathering, consider pairing with a red wine. Your favorite will do.
Smith suggests a German Riesling or Gewürztraminer for hot dogs.
Here’s a summary of the suggestions.
-Potato chips = Champagne or sparkling wine
-Nachos = Grenache
-Buffalo wings = Spanish Cava or sparkling wine
-Beef, hamburgers or sliders = Red wine
-Hot dogs = German Riesling or Gewürztraminer
Don’t stress out if you can’t round up these exact wines. Remember they are simply suggestions. The biggest rule is to serve what you and your guests like. No matter what you decide to serve at your Super Bowl party, you’ll be safe with a nice variety of reds and whites.
If you do try to track down these wines, I suggest you go to a larger or specialty wine store like BevMo, Total Wine & More, Vino 100 or Wine Styles. You may have trouble finding the Spanish Cava, German wines and Grenache at your local grocery store unless they have a large, fantastic wine section.
Of course if you just want a nice variety of reds and whites, no sweat, your supermarket will do just fine.
My biggest tip on game day… just have fun. Touchdown!
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