The kickoff of football season always reminds me of burned brats, warm white wine and that sinking feeling when you learn no one remembered to bring a corkscrew. Tailgate parties don’t have to be a disappointing launch to an otherwise glorious autumn afternoon, though they often are.
Over the years I’ve learned a few lessons that I will now share with those inclined to want wine instead of beer at the next tailgate party.
1. Do not fear the screwcap. Stranded and thirsty in a sun-drenched parking lot, the once onerous “scewcap” closure could be your best friend. Screwcap once upon a time was an indication of poor quality. The Aussies and Kiwis changed our thinking when some years ago they started selling many of their finest wines in bottles with screwcap closures. Now everyone does it and the convenience factor when you are camping or tailgating is off the charts. Do not let the absence of a corkscrew spoil your party.
2. Do not fear the tall, slender wine bottles popular in Germany and Austria. Too many wine enthusiasts equate this bottle shape with sweet dessert wines. Not so. Dry Rieslings and Gewurztraminers from stellar producers such as Dutton-Goldfield and Navarro Vineyards are poured from the same type of bottle, and these might well be the best match for your grilled sausages and brats.
3. Do not fear pink wine. Once upon a time most domestic pink wine was sweet and icky. Not so anymore. Domestic producers have embraced Europe’s love of crisp, dry Rosé wines that are both refreshing and oh-so-versatile with just about every savory morsel served up at a typical tailgate gathering.
Connect with Robert on Twitter at @WineGuru.
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