As many people have come to appreciate over the years, food, football, and beverages are a triple threat. Whether it is the group who tailgates at the crack of dawn until game time or the party host who gathers everyone around their television, the passes, sacks, and touchdowns are just one part of football game day. As the Official Wine Sponsor of the NFL, Barefoot Wine does not want food and wine to be complicated. They just want it to be a winning experience.
Some people are intimidated by wine. Whether it is not understanding the grapes or rolling their eyes at the thought of parsing flavors, the complicated discussions do not have to be part of the drinking experience. Sometimes, drinkers should just sip and be satisfied without the in-depth discussion.
Barefoot Wine welcomes all drinkers to open a bottle. Whether it is the casual drinker who does not know a Pinot Grigio from a Pinot Noir or the person who can appreciate the complexities of terroir, all drinkers can join the conversation. Similar to how the NFL welcomes all people to their fandoms, Barefoot’s approachability adds to its wide appeal.
Ahead of the final game of the NFL Season, Jennifer Wall, Winemaker at Barefoot Cellars Wine and Bubbly, shared her thoughts on the impact that Barefoot’s partnership with the NFL is having on the brand. While some people will never dare consider a $100 bottle, the approachable wine, both in flavor and price point, opens a conversation on how and when wine can be enjoyed.
Currently, Barefoot Wine has over 30 labels under its brand. From sparkling to still and classic offerings to lower caloric alternatives, there is something for most drinkers. Even the person who might just choose a bottle based on the label will be pleased with that first sip.
Since Barefoot has a strong connection to the NFL and football, Wall believes that the evolution of wine served at games is just at the starting point. While there have been great strides throughout this partnership, there is more to come.
As Wall commented, Barefoot is not only a top selling American brand as well as an award winning brand, but Barefoot is about understanding how their wine works in any and all situations. From the simple glass enjoyed in the stands or at the elevated tailgate, there is something in their portfolio that works for any occasion.
That idea of versatility for any and every occasion is key to the Barefoot Wine brand. While Wall believes that “football, food, and wine are the perfect pairings,” the connection extends beyond the fourth quarters played on Sunday.
Wall believes that the company is about “bringing new wine consumers into the category.” Whether it is a WAGS activation that gets social media buzz or a creative food and beverage pairing that gets consumers to think differently, all the events are meant to get people talking. It is like breaking down the barrier to entry. Once the door is open, anything is possible.
Given that Wall shared that she loves themed parties, crafting a big game party for the final game of the season is on her agenda. With New Orleans being a food-centric city, NOLA favorites lend themselves to flavorful food and beverage pairings.
At her parties, Wall starts with Barefoot Bubbly Brut Cuvee California champagne for the pre-game or tailgate. She describes the sparkling wine as “our driest bubbly” in the portfolio. As an opening sip, Wall believes that the wine’s vibrancy offers pairing versatility, especially when it comes to New Orleans favorites.
For example, she mentioned that the Barefoot Bubbly Brut Cuvee would pair with either fried chicken or even fried gator. The wine’s brightness can cut through the richness of those dishes.
If guests prefer Barefoot Pinot Grigio, Wall recommends crawfish. Whether it is that bountiful seafood boil or just a few of those delicacies on the plate, the crisp, citrus forward wine feels light and approachable.
When guests opt for the classic, creamy chardonnay, Wall prefers an oyster pairing. From a simple raw oyster with a mignonette to an oyster po boy, the wine’s creaminess compliments the briny oyster.
Many drinkers prefer red wines to sip all game long. The always popular Cabernet Sauvignon is Wall’s pick for classic football food, like sliders. For hosts who are serving NOLA favorites, this varietal works well with a roast beef po boy or even some red beans and rice.
Lastly, instead of another cookie or slice of pie, Wall recommends a different sweet ending, the Barefoot Pink Moscato. She described the sweeter wine as having notes of mandarin orange tangerine, and raspberries. Wall recommends pairing this option with the classic King Cake from Mardi Gras or some light, fluffy beignets.
Overall, Barefoot Wine is using its NFL partnership not only to expand its brand’s presence in the sports space but also to denote a change in wine drinking occasions. Whether that liquid is served in cut crystal or an unbreakable glass, the realty is that Barefoot Wine is meant to be opened and enjoyed wherever and whenever. Dust should never cover these bottles because they are meant to be drunk.