Changing the [Pre]Game

I had such a fun time wiping out  mortifying myself  getting a football crash course at Gillette Stadium with bae Chris Hogan last week! The idea of a moderately dumbed down women’s football camp with all male coaches may have been sliiiightly sexist, but I put my feminism aside for a hot second to stare into Chris Hogan’s dreamy eyes learn the difference between punting and snapping.

 During the cocktail hour beforehand, I questioned whether or not it was inappropriate to order wine at a sports-related event. Then thought, silly me, it’s always appropriate to order wine.

Let’s go ahead and forget the assumption that Football Sundays are beer’s territory. That myth came from either a) man’s sport = man’s drink aka sexist AF, or b) the fact that beer is, by nature, more portable and thus preferable for tailgating.

Not so, coach. Lila Wines are changing the game. And the pregame. These canned wines mean I never have to fake enjoy another light beer again.

But, does wine really work with buffalo wings? Taco dip? Guac? Pretty sure there’s not a soul reading this blog right now who doesn’t know in his or her heart of hearts that we’re here for the food.

So investigate I did. It was a hard job, but I took one for the team. Here are three Game Day Wine Pairings::

Smoky Cheesy Garlic Rolls // Pinot Grigio
I’m never the first person to reach for chicken wings; pass me the carbs and the cheese please. Not only are these pull-apart garlic rolls super easy to make, they’re also perfect for packing. There’s already a lot going on flavor wise here, so reach for Lila Pinot Grigio; its mellowness won’t get in the way of that smoky cheesy garlic goodness, and its subtle citrus taste pairs well with garlic.
How to:: Follow this video for the basics, substituting 1 clove fresh garlic for the garlic powder & grated gouda cheese for the mozzarella.
Also pairs with:: Grilled Corn with Bell Pepper Butter | Chicken & Waffle Sliders

Grilled Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Goat Cheese // Rosé
Light, dry rosés like Lila Canned Rosé balance out the slight sweetness of the ham, while the acidic, tangy flavor of fresh soft goat cheese matches the acidity of the wine, meaning neither’s taste overpowers the other. Rose Bowl I mean more like ROSÉ Bowl guys.
How to:: Spread a thin layer of crumbled goat cheese on a single piece of prosciutto. Tightly roll asparagus spear in prosciutto. Grill {we used a panini press!} for 3-4 minutes on each side.
Also pairs with:: Crab Cakes with Pineapple Salsa | Blackened Shrimp Nachos | Baked Italian Cheese Sandwiches

Chocolate Covered Strawberries // Vino Frizzante
Because have you ever tried to east chocolate-covered strawberries without some sort of sparkling wine? It’s like Oreos without milk. No thank you, enough said.
How to:: Wash and dry strawberries. Dip in melted Dolci Frutta, or similar hard chocolate shell. Let dry completely on a flat surface. Fill pastry bag with 1/2 cup white frosting of your choice; attempt to hold hand steady and become Pinterest star while trying to remember what a football looks like.
Also pairs with:: Actually, a lot. Sparkling wines and champagnes are all-around perfect with just about every kind of tailgate food – the fizz cuts the salt.
Try:: Jalapeño Popper Crescent Cups | Smoked Salmon Dip | Bacon Caramel Popcorn

Any game day wine pairings on your list?! LMK, we’ve got a lot of Sundays left in the year!

#gopats

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Full disclosure: This post was created in partnership with 90+ Cellars. Thank you for supporting the brands that support shell chic’d!