Are You Ready For Some Football?

This is actually a tough look to pull off

Some of us in New York are a little more passionate about today’s football games than others. (Although like Bart Scott, I too can’t wait.)

For a lot of folks, football is synonymous with beer. I too enjoy the occasional round of Blue Moon, Magic Hat Circus Boy or Brooklyner Weisse. (That last brew can be found just next door at The Brooklyn Brewery.) But if you want to enjoy wine with your football, then I’ve got some options for you. How would I decide what wine to pair with each team? Easy, it’s all about the food!

Now Chicago is renowned for deep-dish pizza. On those blustery winter days, nothing provides warmth like a delicious slice from Gino’s. If you want your wine more medium go for a Chianti; of if you want it full-bodied (maybe you like pepperoni) a Syrah. Compared to the pizza, these wines are as smooth as Brian Urlacher’s head. (Hmm… that’s a terrible visual for wine-drinking.)

Besides the Packers, Green Bay is known for only one other thing: cheese! If you find yourself amongst cheese-heads rooting for Favre’s heir apparent Aaron Rodgers, then I suggest a Chardonnay (Cheddar), Riesling (Gouda) or Chianti (Mozzarella). 

New York, New York. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. And what does New York make better than any other city? Bagels! If I had an array of H&H bagels topped with schmear and lox, I’d definitely pair that with a Pinot Gris from Oregon or California. (Unlike the Italian Pinot Grigio, the American Pinot Gris is a little spicier and less sweet.) 

And that leaves the Steelers. Hmm… Pittsburgh. Doesn’t really scream any particular snack or cuisine unless you count… Heinz Ketchup? Let’s go with that. If you’ve got a juicy burger with all the fixings, I’d go with a Cabernet Sauvignon.

Yes, it is possible to enjoy a nice glass of wine with football. Though if you get any jeers from other fans you’re on your own!