Organic Wines for Tailgating – Be it In Person, Virtual or the Backyard
Organic wines for tailgating! While physical tailgating may not be in play this football season due to Covid-19, taking it virtual, or making the most with smaller gatherings in the backyard may have to suffice this fall. When most people think of traditional tailgating, they think of crowded parking lots with huge coolers filled with cans of domestic beer and brats on the grill.
With the increasing interest in organic and Biodynamic wines, we thought we’d bring you a slightly different approach to tailgating fair. Enjoying game day and good barbecue with friends doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your palate. However, some wines are better suited for the tailgating experience than others. You’re looking for something that’s light enough to enjoy during the day, yet hearty enough to stand up to the bold flavors of the grill. Here are our pro tips on how to choose the best organic wines for tailgating – no matter where you are or what it looks like!
Factors To Consider
Weather
You might have chosen a crisp, cool white for the day’s event—only to find that it’s damp and drizzly for your outdoor gathering. In this case, you probably want to swap in a heartier organic wine for tailgating. Just make sure that whatever you choose will still complement whatever ingredients are sizzling away on the grill.
Time of Day
When will your group be congregating? A bubbly Tarantas Cava is a better choice for a morning call, while the rich cherry flavors of Tarantas Tempranillo are well-suited for nighttime events.
Alcohol Content
Be sure to check the alcohol content of your chosen sips. It’s always a good idea to enjoy responsibly, especially if you plan to drive home after the game. For lower alcohol options, try Broletto Lambrusco which will pair with a variety of foods (even hot dogs!) and will keep things in focus for the afternoon.
Food Pairings with Organic Wines for Tailgating
The old rules about “red wine with red meat, white wine with chicken and fish” have pretty much gone out the window—or through the tailgate, as it were. That said, there’s no denying that some wines work better with certain flavors.
If you’re sticking with basic burgers and dogs, there’s nothing to worry about. Just choose whichever wine strikes your fancy. If there’s serious barbecue action going on, however, pay close attention to the style.
Kansas City barbecue relies on a sweet flavor profile, so you’ll want to stick with a robust red wine that will balance out the sugar. The sauces used in South Carolina, meanwhile, have a tangy kick of vinegar that’s a better partner for vibrant sip such as orange wine Biokult Naken.
Suggestions For Organic Wines for Tailgating
Red Organic Wines for Tailgating
The hefty Koyle Royale Cabernet Sauvignon is sure to provide a nice backbone for the enticing aromas of savory meat and earthy smoke. For a fruitier kick, try Pizzolato Chianti, which is characterized by savory notes but carries welcome hints of cherries and plums. There are often notes of ripe tomato on the underside of the flavor, which is a particularly ingenious choice if there are burgers on the menu.
White Organic Wines for Tailgating
We’re big fans of sweet, juicy wines to accompany grilled sausages and bratwurst, particularly on a sunny day. Try Lorenz Riesling bursting with ripe peach and pear flavors, or Koyle Costa La Flor Sauvignon Blanc to provide a counterpoint to spicy and peppery foods.
If you prefer something drier, the classic Pizzolato Pinot Grigio is a mellow and nuanced choice, with more definition than its more popular counterpart. Because the Pinot Grigio grape is actually a mutation of Pinot Noir, its flavors are more intense, with a slightly viscous texture. You can almost taste the fog clinging to the grapes. We think these qualities make it a better choice for the evening.
Rosé Organic Wines for Tailgating
To refresh the palate after a hearty bite, you’ll want a rosé that’s light and invigorating. Choose Inkarri Rosé’s blend of Syrah, Malbec and Tannat — when you’re looking for something vibrant and citrusy, with some herbal notes to keep things lively.
Sparkling Organic Wines for Tailgating
On the subject of sparkling wines: Pizzolato Fields Prosecco is a natural partner for a celebration, and goes well with a myriad of ingredients. Try it on crisp fall mornings when the tailgating menu consists of eggs and bacon. A splash of all-natural freshly squeezed orange juice will cut down on the alcohol content.
When it comes to tailgating, wine lovers don’t need to be left on the sidelines. Organic wines make a fine companion in any environment, and they’ll add a new dimension to whatever is on the menu.