Whether you’re a lifelong football fan or just in it for the snacks, Super Bowl foods rarely disappoint. Nachos, Buffalo wings and the like are fun even if your team didn’t make it to the big game, or if you’re more familiar with the half time performers than the players.
Wine pairings with Super Bowl foods present a world of opportunity, too. Thanks in part to generations of memorable advertisements featuring frogs, Clydesdales and Kenny G, many people associate beer with the big game. That’s not your only option, though. Wines with crisp acidity, fruit flavors or festive effervescence can complement the rich flavors or fiery spice spinach artichoke dip or beefy chili.
Learn more about how to pair wine with top Super Bowl foods with this guide, which also features recipes for some of our favorite versions of traditional football fare.
Pro-tip: The extended halftime show is a great time to refill your glass and revisit the snack table.
Nachos with Riesling
An off-dry Riesling with a touch of fruity sweetness offsets the spiciness of nachos. This nachos recipe features shredded chicken, queso and tomatillo salsa.
Buffalo Wings with Gewürztraminer
To balance the richness of butter and spice of hot sauce, try a floral, off-dry Gewürztraminer. Off-dry Riesling or Chenin Blanc could also work, pros say. Learn more about wing and wine pairings here.
Spinach Artichoke Dip with Grüner Veltliner
It can be challenging to pair wine with artichokes, but aromatic Austrian white wine Grüner Veltliner has the crisp acidity to cut through this creamy dip.
Pro-tip: The extended halftime show is a great time to refill your glass and revisit the snack table.
Jalapeño Poppers with Chenin Blanc
Stuffed with cheese and chilies, jalapeño poppers the perfect foil for a zesty white wine like Chenin Blanc. While these arepitas aren’t the exact same snack, they share many of the same flavors.
Veggies and Hummus with Chardonnay
Look for an unoaked Chardonnay with ample acidity to complement the garlicky, lemon-scented hummus and vegetables on your crudité platter.
Sliders with Lambrusco
A dry Lambrusco has the fruity flavors, the mild tannic structure and effervescence to stand up to these hearty fried chicken sliders. We like to serve them on potato buns with homemade chipotle mayonnaise.
Chili with Rhône-style Red Blend
For a chili made with beef, you’ll want a full-bodied red wine. A Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre blend from the Southern Rhône, or a similar Rhône-style red wine, is your answer.
Ribs with Tempranillo
To balance rich pork ribs, look for a fruit-forward red wine with soft, integrated tannins, like Tempranillo from Rioja in Spain.
Last Updated: September 28, 2022
