The grill is sizzling, the crowd is gathering, and the excitement is building. Whether you’re in the stadium parking lot or hosting a pre‑game spread at home, there’s one MVP that deserves a place at your pre-game spread: wine. Offering a great glass of wine can take your tailgate from casual cookout to a celebration worth cheering for.
Offer Something for Everyone
Wine brings balance, versatility, and character to the tailgate table, and offering lots of beverage options helps the gathering feel more welcoming. Raeburn’s Sonoma County wines, like their Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, are known for bold flavor, approachability, and for being particularly food-friendly, which makes them a great pick for pairing with a wide variety of menu options. Wine complements spirited celebrations without any pretense.
A Dynamic Duo
Wine has a way of slowing down the moment and making gatherings feel special. And when it comes to pairing with tailgate food, few choices are as adaptable as Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. They’ll help you satisfy a wide range of preferences without complicating your beverage lineup.
Chardonnay brings brightness and balance. Its citrus and orchard fruit notes refresh the palate, while its structure stands up beautifully to grilled foods and creamy sides. Cabernet Sauvignon delivers depth and richness, offering dark fruit flavors and smooth tannins that pair seamlessly with smoky meats and bold cheeses.
Pairing Chardonnay with Game-Day Classics
Tailgating menus are often dominated by grilled favorites and comfort foods. Versatile, fresh Chardonnay, with its bright, lush fruit flavor, is a great match for a range of game day favorites.
- Grilled Chicken or Turkey Burgers: The wine’s acidity cuts through char and smoke, while its roundness complements lean, juicy meat.
- Mac & Cheese: Creamy, cheesy goodness finds harmony with Chardonnay’s freshness, creating a balance that keeps bites indulgent but never heavy.
- Veggie Skewers: Think bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms brushed with olive oil—the wine’s crisp finish brightens each bite.
- Chips & Dips: From spinach artichoke dip to guacamole, Chardonnay’s texture enhances salty, creamy flavors.
- Chardonnay is also a smart move if your tailgate starts under the sun. Served well-chilled, it’s refreshing enough to keep spirits high even before kickoff.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Bold Moves for Big Flavor
As the day winds down and the grill kicks into high gear, it’s time for Cabernet to take the field. Its robust character plays perfectly with the deeper, smokier flavors that dominate many tailgate menus.
- BBQ Ribs: Cabernet’s structure holds up against sweet, sticky sauces while enhancing the savory meatiness of slow-cooked ribs.
- Smoked Brisket: The wine’s tannins cut through the richness, highlighting the brisket’s layers of flavor.
- Loaded Burgers: Whether topped with bacon, blue cheese, or sautéed mushrooms, a burger becomes even more memorable with a Cabernet Sauvignon in hand.
- Cheese & Charcuterie: Sharp cheddar, aged gouda, or peppery salami all find their match in the wine’s bold profile.
- Cabernet not only satisfies hearty appetites but also feels celebratory—perfect for raising a glass to your team’s success.
Tailgating is about more than food and drink. A memorable game day is all about connection, energy, and savoring the moment. While wine may not be the traditional tailgate beverage, it’s quickly becoming a fan favorite—and for good reason! It pairs beautifully, caters to varied tastes, and brings a touch of unexpected elegance to a laid-back event. So next time you fire up the grill, pack a couple of bottles alongside the burgers and brisket. With the right pairings and a few simple hosting touches, your tailgate will be remembered long after the final whistle blows.