Gameday Wines for Gameday Snacks
Published: November 13, 2024
It’s that time of year again—game day! Whether you're rooting for your team, enjoying the halftime show, or just there for the snacks (guilty!), one thing’s for sure: It’s the perfect excuse to gather with friends, indulge in great food, and maybe, just maybe, sip on something a little more exciting than beer.
Now, I know what you’re thinking—beer is practically synonymous with game day. And don’t get me wrong, I’m all for cracking open a cold one when the game’s about to kick off. But let’s take a moment to talk about something equally worthy of your attention: wine. 🍷
Yes, wine. It’s the underdog of game day beverages, but hear me out—wine not only has the ability to elevate your snack game, but it can also add an extra layer of joy to the whole experience. Whether your team is crushing it or you’re nursing a heartbreaking loss (we’ve all been there), a glass of the right wine has a magical way of making things better. Plus, when it comes to wine and snack pairings, there’s no shortage of options. So, in the spirit of making your next game day even more delicious and memorable, I’ve put together some of my top wine pairings for your favorite game day snacks. No need to overthink it—let’s get into the fun part: wine, snacks, and good company. Ready to find the perfect bottle for your next game day party? Let’s dive in!
1. Chips and Salsa
Ah, chips and salsa—the ultimate game day snack. Whether you're opting for a classic tomato-based salsa or a spicy mango variation, this dish is a must-have. But what wine goes best with all that acidity and heat? A Sauvignon Blanc is your new best friend. Its crisp acidity and citrusy notes make it a perfect match to cut through the tanginess of the salsa. Plus, the freshness of the wine pairs wonderfully with the crunch of the chips. Perfect for snacking between game breaks—or, let’s be honest, until the bowl is empty.
2. Buffalo Chicken Wings
If you’re brave enough to take on the heat of buffalo wings, you’ll need a wine that can keep up with the spicy kick. A high-alcohol wine—like a Zinfandel—will turn up the heat, intensifying those spicy flavors to an 11. But if you’d rather take a more balanced approach and tame that fire a bit, reach for a Riesling. Its slightly sweet profile, combined with high acidity, helps tone down the spice while refreshing your palate between bites. Your wings (and your tastebuds) will thank you.
3. Pulled Pork Sliders
There’s just something about a smoky, tender pulled pork slider that screams game day comfort. But the rich barbecue sauce? That’s where things get interesting. You’ll want a wine that won’t be overpowered by all that smoky, sweet goodness. Enter Zinfandel—a wine with bold, peppery notes and just the right amount of jammy fruit. It has the structure and flavor to stand up to the rich, tangy sauce and balance out the savory depth of the pork. You’ll definitely want to have a second slider (and maybe a second glass of Zinfandel, too). Zinfandel not your thing? Pinot works great too!
Learn more: Check out our blog on the best Pinot Noir for any budget.
4. Queso
Queso dip—it's melty, cheesy, and a bit spicy, and it’s impossible to stop dipping once you’ve started. For this creamy, slightly spicy dip, the wine you want to reach for is a rosé. Its light body, fresh acidity, and subtle fruitiness will cut through the richness of the cheese while complementing the kick of heat in the dip. Plus, rosé is versatile enough to pair well with pretty much everything else on your game day spread—so it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
5. Chili
Chili is one of those beloved game day foods that comes in so many delicious forms—beefy, spicy, or vegetarian. And lucky for you, there’s a wine for every version!
- For a hearty beef chili, reach for a Malbec. Its medium tannins, dark berry flavors, and herbal undertones make it an ideal partner for the meaty richness of chili.
- If you’re diving into a spicy chili, follow the golden rule: the higher the alcohol content, the spicier the food will seem. So, a Pinot Grigio—with its crisp acidity and refreshing finish—will help cut the heat while balancing out the spices.
- And for those cozy, vegetarian chili bowls, a Pinot Noir is a perfect choice. The light tannins and berry notes will pair beautifully with the earthy vegetables, creating a wonderfully balanced bite with each spoonful.
One chili, three wines—who knew pairing chili could be this much fun?
6. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of savory—spinach and artichoke dip is one of those timeless game day snacks that’s hard to resist. To complement its rich texture, go for a creamy, oaked Chardonnay. The wine’s fuller body and sumptuous mouthfeel match the dip’s creamy richness, while its slight oakiness adds a touch of elegance. It’s like the wine version of a warm, cozy hug. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for more—of both the dip and the wine.
Learn more: Check out our guide on the best Chardonnay!
7. Fried Food
Ah, the golden, crispy perfection of fried food—whether it’s fries, tater tots, or mozzarella sticks, there’s just something about the crunch that makes it irresistible. Pairing fried food with wine might seem tricky, but the answer is simple: sparkling wine. The bubbles and acidity in sparkling wine work wonders to cut through the grease and salt, refreshing your palate between bites and making each crunchy morsel even more enjoyable. Plus, sparkling wines are often a crowd favorite, so you can’t go wrong.
8. Desserts
Game day desserts are often rich, sweet, and indulgent, so pairing them with the right wine is crucial to finishing on a high note. If your dessert spread includes anything chocolate—whether it's a decadent brownie, chocolate cake, or truffles—consider pairing it with a Zinfandel. The ripe, fruity profile and hints of spice in Zinfandel provide a beautiful contrast to the deep, rich flavors of chocolate. Plus, Zinfandel’s robust character holds its own against these hearty desserts, making each bite and sip feel like a treat.
For something lighter, like a fruit tart or berry-filled shortcake, Cabernet Franc is an unexpectedly delightful choice. With its delicate flavors of raspberry, bell pepper, and a touch of spice, this wine adds a refreshing touch to fruity desserts without overwhelming them. The acidity in Cabernet Franc also helps balance out the sweetness of the fruit, leaving you with a perfectly rounded end to your game day spread.
The Secret to Converting Beer Lovers to Wine Lovers
Above all, if you have a “beer-only friend” that you’ve been trying to convert to wine, let them cleanse their palate before tasting any of the above varietals. A hoppy IPA or mango-flavored beer won’t pair with just any old wine. So, to play it safe, have them take a bite of some pizza or dip and then give them a splash of the wine that pairs with that food for your best chances of bringing them into the world of vino.
Ready to Stock Up on Wine for Game Day?
Now that you’ve got the perfect wine pairings for every game day snack, it’s time to make sure your wine selection is ready to go! At yourwinestore.com, we make it easy to buy wine online. Whether you're looking for something bold to pair with your pulled pork sliders or a crisp wine for chips and salsa, we’ve got you covered. Browse our wide selection and have your favorite bottles delivered straight to your door, just in time for the big game!