By: Stephen Little

Alright, it’s Super Bowl Sunday, and you know what that means. Buffalo wings and philly cheesesteaks in all forms. Could be in a dip, could be on a roll, might even show up on top of ice cream. You never know these days. But what I do know is that wherever you are, whatever you’re eating, you need the right wine to go with it. And today, we’re taking a trip to the Rhône Valley in France to break down two incredible wines that are perfect for any football Sunday.

First up, Côtes du Rhône. Think of this as your Lot K tailgate wine. You’re in the parking lot early, grilling, tossing the football, and gearing up for the game. This is the bottle that keeps things light and fun. Mostly Grenache, with some Syrah blended in, it’s fresh, fruit forward, and easy to drink. No heavy oak, no overcomplicated flavors, just pure juicy goodness. You can sip on this all day and still have the energy to cheer when your team takes the field. My choice is Pelaquie Laudun Rouge Cotes Du Rhones Villlages this workhouse Côtes du Rhône is juicy and lush with dark stone fruit.

Now if you’re feeling boujee and heading to the luxury box, you’re reaching for Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which translates to "the Pope's New Castle,” you’ll learn why in a moment. This is the wine of the VIPs, the Taylor Swift suite level experience. It’s rich, bold, and has a history that goes back centuries to 1309. Châteauneuf-du-Pape was created during a period when seven successive popes resided in Avignon, France, due to political unrest in Rome and pressure from the French king. However, there was an issue– the wine  in Avignon in 1309 was subpar. So, as you do when you are the papacy, you request better wine. When the Pope tells you to make better wine, you make it happen and the rest is history.

Today, Châteauneuf-du-Pape one of the most iconic wines in the world. It’s Grenache heavy, blended with Syrah and sometimes up to 20 other grapes. My choice is Domaine De La Charbonniere Châteauneuf-du-Pape. You’ll get big, ripe fruit, a little spice, and a deeper, fuller body. And at 15.5% ABV, if your team is blowing a lead in the fourth quarter, this one might help numb the pain.

So whether you’re tailgating in the cold or watching from the best seats in the house, the Rhône Valley has you covered. Côtes du Rhône keeps it light and fun, Châteauneuf-du-Pape brings the bold and complex. Grab a bottle, pour a glass, and enjoy the show.

And if you’re feeling bold, maybe throw a bet on the lock of the night: Juju Smith-Schuster over 16.5 yards receiving. You heard it here first.