Touchdown Pairings: Perfect Beer, Wine, and Gameday Appetizers for Football Season
Football season is finally here, and that means it’s time to bring out the ultimate game-day snacks. Sure, you could throw together some chips and dip, but why not level up with drinks that complement your favorite appetizers? Whether you’re a beer buff or a wine connoisseur, Boone’s Wine & Spirits has the ideal pairings to make your football watch party unforgettable. Here are four mouth-watering food and drink combos that will have your guests cheering for more than just the game!
1. Buffalo Wings + IPA
No gameday is complete without the iconic buffalo wing. Whether you prefer your wings mild, medium, or tongue-scorchingly hot, pairing them with a hoppy IPA is a winning move. The bitterness of the IPA not only tames the spice but also enhances the overall flavor experience. The carbonation and boldness of the beer help cleanse your palate between bites, while the hops add a refreshing contrast to the tangy buffalo sauce.
Try: Outer Range Brewing’s IPA or Vail Brewing Co.’s Gore Creek IPA
Pro Tip: Keep a veggie platter and ranch or blue cheese dip nearby for a refreshing side that cools down the heat.
2. Sliders + Amber Ale
Sliders are the MVP of any football spread because they’re easy to eat, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re going for classic beef sliders, pulled pork, or a vegetarian black bean version, an amber ale is your perfect match. The smooth maltiness of an amber balances out the savory, juicy flavors of the meat, while its subtle sweetness adds an extra layer of depth to every bite.
Try: Odell Brewing’s 90 Shilling Amber Ale
Pro Tip: Elevate your sliders by topping them with caramelized onions, sharp cheddar, and a dash of barbecue sauce. Want to impress your vegetarian friends? Swap in a plant-based patty with the same toppings for a meat-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
3. Nachos + Chardonnay
No game day spread is complete without a towering plate of loaded nachos. Whether you keep it simple with cheese and salsa or go all out with jalapeños, guacamole, and sour cream, a rich, buttery chardonnay can handle the bold mix of flavors. The creaminess of the wine complements the gooey melted cheese while its bright acidity cuts through the richness, making each bite feel balanced and refreshing.
Try: Rombauer Chardonnay
Pro Tip: Mix up your nacho game by using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle on some queso blanco for that perfect cheesy pull in every bite.
4. Pulled Pork Sliders + Brown Ale
For those who crave a little more substance on game day, pulled pork sliders are a perfect choice. Whether slow-cooked or smoked, these little sandwiches are packed with flavor. The tender, smoky pork pairs brilliantly with a brown ale, which brings in notes of roasted nuts, caramel, and toffee. These flavors amplify the sweetness of the pork and highlight the tanginess of the BBQ sauce, creating a robust flavor experience.
Try: Newcastle Brown Ale
Pro Tip: Pile some crunchy coleslaw on your sliders for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, adding an extra layer of complexity to each bite.
5. Chili + Malbec
Chili is a game-day staple, and for good reason—it’s hearty, easy to make in large batches, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making beef, chicken, or vegetarian chili, a bold red wine like Malbec is a perfect pairing. Malbec’s dark fruit flavors, like blackberry and plum, complement the smoky and spicy notes of the chili while its tannins stand up to the hearty texture of the dish.
Try: Catena Malbec
Pro Tip: Serve your chili with cornbread, sour cream, and a sprinkle of cheese to complete the perfect football comfort meal. For added flair, prepare a chili toppings bar with green onions, jalapeños, and crushed tortilla chips.
Boone’s Wine & Spirits is your go-to for all your football season beverage needs. Whether you’re hosting friends for the big game or enjoying a quiet night with family, we have the beer and wine selections to perfectly match your favorite gameday snacks. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find just what you need to score big on flavor and make your game day spread the talk of the season.
