We’re officially less than seven days out from the biggest Game Day of the year – and no matter which side you may be rooting for, one thing’s for sure: food and drink will be involved in your near future. Whether football fan or die-hard foodie, this Sunday certainly promises to be one of the most snack-filled days 2018 has ever seen.
Generally speaking, beer tends to play a big role in Super Bowl Sunday sipping – but what about those who don’t usually gravitate toward the suds? No worries, we’ve got five awesome Super Bowl sip and snack pairings just for you; whether wine, cocktails or simple pre-canned beverages are more your jam, find your alternative drink and snack pairing here.
If you love Sparkling Wine: Pair Mozzarella Sticks with Cava
This pairing is basically as simple as it gets: everyone loves bubbles, and everyone definitely loves cheese. Sparkling wine and fried food has certainly taken off over the last few years – and it’s no surprise why. The crisp, refreshing acidity that comes with a glass of bubbles pairs perfectly with the salty fat that comprises fried batter. Add cheese to the mix, and you’ve got yourself a mouthful of perfection.
Suggested Bottle(s): Raventos i Blanc Brut Cava (though if you feel like splurging, you can’t go wrong with a bottle of Charles Heidsieck Reserve Brut Champagne!)
If you love White Wine: Pair Chips and Guacamole with Albariño
Chips and Guac are always a staple – though if you’re not jonesing for a margarita or Modelo, what’s a Game Day watcher to do? Grab a bottle of white, of course! Salty chips and creamy guac call for a white wine brimming with high acid and saline notes, which is why you can’t go wrong with a bottle of Spanish Albariño. Hailing from northwestern Spain, the wines are zippy and crisp, refreshing the palate with every sip (and bite!).
Suggested Bottle(s): Bodegas Zarate Albariño 2016 (hint: Portuguese Alvarinho is the same grape!)
If you love a Premade Canned Beverage: Pair Twisted Tea with Matching Twisted Tea Cheese Dip
Okay, we know what you’re thinking, Twisted Tea? The answer is YES! This premade canned beverage is perfect for so many reasons. First, zero prep. Simply chill, grab a can, crack open, and enjoy – no fuss necessary! Second, the alcohol taste is extremely minimal, making this a great choice for those who don’t really enjoy the taste of booze. Third, the beverage isn’t carbonated (and is a low 5 percent ABV), keeping both bloat and buzz on the low side. For a citrusy alternative, grab a six-pack of Twisted Tea Half & Half.
Recipe: Twisted Tea Cheese Dip (Courtesy of Twisted Tea)
1 cup – Twisted Tea Original
1 tablespoon – Cornstarch
½ lb.– Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Hot Sauce (optional) – to taste
Directions: Pour Twisted Tea into a saucepan on the edge of the grill. Dissolve cornstarch in a small bowl with some Twisted Tea. When tea comes to a boil, pour in cornstarch and swirl pan to mix. Slowly add shredded cheese, mixing the whole time until combined. Keep over medium heat, adding some hot sauce if you want a little kick.
If you love Red Wine: Pair Seven Layer Dip with Mencia
As implied in the name, Seven Layer Dip has a lot going on; guac, salsa, beans, cheese… the list goes on. You’ll definitely want a red wine with enough backbone, earthiness, and tannic structure to stand against the fatty cream and spicy ingredients. We love the idea of pairing a bottle of Mencia, another native variety to northwestern Spain’s Galicia region. Mencia’s signature earthy spice and approachable tannic structure make this wine a no-brainer with this layered, creamy dip.
Suggested Bottle(s): Envinate Ribeira Sacra ‘Lousas Vina de Aldea’ 2015 or A Portela Mencia 2014
If you love Cocktails: Pair Fried Pickles with The Royal Dynasty
Fried pickles are basically everything you could want: tangy, savory and all around delicious – just like the ingredients in this cocktail. The tang of the ginger beer and citrusy lime complement the zesty pickles, while the Crown Royal Vanilla brings a refreshing creaminess to the finish. Be sure to make an extra round of drinks for a post-game nightcap.
Recipe:
Royal Dynasty (recipe courtesy of Crown Royal)
1.5 oz. Crown Royal Vanilla
Top with Ginger Beer
Squeeze of Fresh Lime Juice
Garnish with Lime Wedge
Photo by AleAlexandra Andersson
