The modern tailgate party is more than beer and burgers. These days, tailgaters go all out, some even serving a full gourmet meal on China plates accompanied by crystal glasses of fine wines. Of course, most of us aren't going to get that elaborate, but wine lovers can definitely have a great glass of wine while cheering on their favorite college teams.
Charcuterie boards have become a tailgate staple over the past few years. Most wines will find a great pairing somewhere among the fruits, nuts, cheeses and cold cuts. However, you can't go wrong with light-bodied pinot noirs or refreshing rosés We'd heartily recommend one of our French Rosés -- Château Clamens Prestige Rosé (70% Négrette/30% Syrah) or Château Clamens Un Dimanche Ensoleillé (A Sunny Sunday) Rosé of Négrette.
The Prestige Rosé features a citrus-forward nose, followed by aromas of cherry and other red fruits and just a hint of spice. The palate offers the same bright flavors as the nose, and a hint of ripe peaches on the tongue as the wine opens up.
The Sunny Sunday Rosé is softer and more subtle. It's dry, fruity and well-balanced, featuring aromas and flavors of juicy strawberries, raspberries and red currant.
Our partners also have delightful pinots that will not only pair great with charcuterie, but complement so many other dishes, like smoked salmon, grilled burgers and chicken, and fresh salads.
Miro Cellars 2021 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir recently scored 92 points from Wine Enthusiast magazine. This beautiful Pinot opens with a fruity nose of dark cherry compote, hints of cranberry, ripe strawberry, and rose petals. Further aeration reveals nuances of cola, vanilla, toast, with a dash of forest floor and fresh earthy notes. The palate opens with fresh ripe fruit and finishes with balanced acidity and soft, silky tannins.
One of the newest additions to Preston-Layne's portfolio are three stunning pinot noirs from Cave de Turckheim. While Alsace has traditionally produced nice pinots, they have only gotten better as the climate has warmed slightly in the region. Each one of these wines is lovely. The Pinot Noir Tradition is priced to fit any budget, and while the Reserve Pinot Noir is a little more pricy, it still won't break the bank if you want to offer your tailgate guests something special. And, if you are hosting a more elegant get-together, you may want to procure several bottles of Cave de Turckheim Rouge T Reserve Pinot Noir. Check out more information about these wines to see which are perfect for your football party.
You also can't go wrong with any of the lovely pinot noirs crafted by our partners at Foris Vineyards in Oregon's Rogue Valley.
Red wines are delicious with staple tailgate fare, like burgers, steaks and ribs. Cabernet Sauvignons or Merlots are a great choice to complement a juicy, grilled meats. Keenan Winery's delightful 2019 Napa Valley Cab is a perfect choice, recently garnering a 94-point score from James Suckling. Another high-scoring Cab that is sheer perfection is Trentadue Winery's 2021 La Storia Cabernet Sauvignon, with 92 points from Wine Enthusiast.
Be sure to peruse our site for lots of amazing wines that are sure to please your tailgate guests this 2023 football season!