A Taste of the 2026 Winter Olympics: What to Watch, Eat, and Pour

The world is getting ready for the 2026 Winter Olympics, hosted in northern Italy in the stunning cities of Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo. From February 6–22, 2026, athletes from more than 90 countries will compete in 16 winter sports, surrounded by the dramatic Dolomite mountains and the energy of Milan’s city streets.

Of course, watching the Olympics isn’t just about the events — it’s also about what you’re eating and drinking while you cheer. And with Italy as the host, the food and wine might be just as exciting as the competition. Northern Italy is known for cozy, comforting dishes and crowd-pleasing wines, making it perfect for cold February nights on the couch.

A Taste of Northern Italy

Much of the Olympic action takes place near the Italian region of Piedmont, which literally means “foot of the mountains.” Piedmont is one of Italy’s most important wine regions and home to many famous grape varieties, including Nebbiolo, Barbera, Dolcetto, and Cortese.

Barbera is especially popular around the towns of Asti and Alba. It produces wines that are smooth, friendly, and easy to enjoy — perfect for casual gatherings. Piedmont is also famous for Barolo and Barbaresco, two iconic wines made from the Nebbiolo grape. Nebbiolo is often compared to Pinot Noir for its elegance and complex aromas.

What’s on the Olympic Table?

Northern Italy’s alpine cuisine is all about warmth and comfort. Think butter, cheese, pasta, cured meats, and rich flavors designed to fuel long winter days.

Local specialties include casunziei all’Ampezzana, beet-filled ravioli tossed in butter and poppy seeds, and osso buco, tender braised veal finished with a fresh gremolata. Other regional favorites include lightly smoked speck, creamy saffron-infused risotto alla Milanese, and rustic polenta served with mushrooms or game.

Easy Olympic-Inspired Dishes for Your Watch Party

You don’t need to spend all day in the kitchen to enjoy the flavors of Italy. These simple, crowd-friendly dishes are perfect for game day:

• Creamy Saffron Pasta (Shortcut Risotto Milanese): Toss cooked pasta with butter, parmesan, and a pinch of saffron.
  
  
• Alpine Cheese Board:  Serve aged Asiago, Fontina, and Taleggio with speck or prosciutto. Add walnuts, apples, or pears, and offer rye crackers or rustic bread.
  
  
• Speck & Mushroom Flatbread: Top store-bought flatbread with mushrooms, mozzarella, and thin slices of speck or prosciutto, then warm in the oven.
  
  
• Crispy Polenta Bites: Bake polenta squares until golden and crisp. Top with pesto or roasted tomatoes.
  
  

What to Pour During the Winter Games

Northern Italy produces some of the most food-friendly wines in the world. For the opening ceremonies, a glass of Natale Verga Prosecco is always a good idea. White wines like La Gondola Pinot Grigio or Natale Verga Moscato d’Asti, which has rounder mouth feel than Pinot Grigio, pair beautifully with creamy dishes.

If you prefer red wine, Natale Verga Barbera d’Asti is juicy and versatile, while Barolo Natale Verga offers bold structure with elegant, layered flavors.

Cocktail fans can mix things up with a Negroni Sbagliato, a winter Aperol Spritz made with blood orange, or Italian-style mulled wine infused with citrus and cloves.

Final Toast

The Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are more than just a sporting event. They’re a celebration of culture, tradition, and coming together. With a few Italian-inspired dishes and thoughtful wine pairings, you can bring the spirit of the Games straight into your living room — no passport required. 🥂