If you’re planning to host a game day watch party this season and want to make sure you provide guests with more options than a blasé lineup of potato chips and beer, here’s a tip: While football is a true American pastime, look to the French for inspiration when it’s time to plan a drinks menu (and definitely don’t forget the wines). Remember, they did just win the World Cup, so clearly they do know a thing or two about a “football” party
Situated in the south of France lies the region of Languedoc. Historically flying under the radar, this area offers some of the most interesting — and best value — wines from France today. The Mediterranean climate provides an ideal environment for vines, allowing the region to produce a diverse range of grapes and wine styles. You’ll want to look specifically for Languedoc AOP wines (also called AOC). These are the crème de la crème from the region — and some of the most exciting wines coming out of France today. Look for these wines at your favorite retail shops around Dallas this September and October.
To pair Languedoc AOC wines with traditional game day dishes, read our suggestions below.
Hors d’oeuvres
Try out these starters paired with a white wine from the Picpoul de Pinet appellation, like the Chateau Saint Martin de la Garrigue AOC Picpoul de Pinet
Cheeses + Charcuterie
An easy way to tap into your French sensibilities is to whip up a charcuterie board with a few different kinds of cheeses and meats. You might be surprised to learn that most cheeses pair better with white wines, as the acidity can really contrast the unctuous creamy, salty goodness.
Dips + Chips
Creating a vegetable platter with a hummus dip is a great lighter option next to heavier football season favorites. If you’re whipping up fresh guacamole for your gathering, also look to a white wine as your go to.
Entrées
Pair these hearty mains with one of the many red blends from Languedoc. These wines feature varieties like Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre in different proportions and showcase a range of fruit and herbal aromas and flavors. Look for appellations like Corbières and Minervois, or check out the wines from Chateau de la Negly in AOC La Clape.
Pizza
Another game day favorite, you won’t necessarily have to stray from convenience to make a great football watch party menu. Pizza pairs well with plenty of wines, especially full bodied red blends.
Chili
Whether you’re topping hot dogs, making chili pies, or serving with cornbread, chili is a delicious game time staple that will endure all football season long. A blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre (typical of Languedoc) will offer flavors that are a nice complement to the smoky threads in the chili.
Finger Foods
Make some bubbles your go to for these finger lickin’ good snacks. The sparkling wines of Limoux pre-date those of Champagne, but come at a fraction of the cost. Look for wines like the Gérard Bertrand Thomas Jefferson Cuvée AOC Crémant de Limoux (Jefferson was actually such a big fan of these wines that he filled his personal cellar with bubbles from Limoux!).
Wings
A staple of any football watching party, chicken wings come in many varieties and levels of spicy. Bubbles can really make them sing and refresh your palate for that next drumstick.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
If you’re feeling crafty, it’s easy to add white chocolate “stitching” to make chocolate-covered strawberries look like little footballs. They’ll also taste extra fancy with sparkling wine!
