A Guide to Game Day Food and Drink

Anyone who's attended a football game in Minnesota knows that tailgating here is a whole different ball game. 

To help you prepare for a legendary pre-game party, we've compiled a guide to the best drinks, food pairings, and insider tips.

Pre-Game Prep

The secret to Minnesota tailgating success starts with smart planning. Here's your game plan:

• Cooler Strategy: Pack beer cans first at the bottom. They'll stay coldest the longest (important for those rare warm September games). Freeze water bottles to use as ice packs; they'll keep everything cold and give you hydration as they melt.
• Emergency Kit Essentials: Create a mini kit using an empty Altoid tin with aspirin, bandages, and antacids. Someone will thank you.
• Find Your Crew: Tie colorful balloons or team flags to your vehicle. Dollar store helium balloons work perfectly and help friends spot you in a sea of tailgaters.

Game Day Essentials

Wine for the Win

Tailgating with wine? You're in good company. For whites that won't fight with your food, go with Greetings Pinot Gris or a crisp Tobias Sauvignon Blanc. Both cut through rich tailgate foods beautifully. Sparkling fans should grab Bouillot Brut or Rosé – perfect with chicken wings or shrimp.

For red wine lovers, Cathedral Creek Cabernet is your MVP. It's excellent with burgers and holds up well with a slight chill. The Diamandes Perlita Rosado is perfect for those who want something lighter that pairs with everything from pizza to wings.

Cocktails That Score

Start strong with Farrell Reserve Vodka for Bloody Marys – the breakfast drink of champions. Pack your favorite fixings to dress them up right. For something uniquely Minnesota, try a Bootleg Cocktail using the vodka: mix fresh lemon juice, lime juice, honey, and muddled mint, then add equal parts of your mix, club soda, and vodka over ice.

When temperatures drop, reach for whiskey. Irish coffee made with Jameson and grab-and-go lattes is a tailgating hack we swear by. Or keep it simple with premade Jack and Coke, perfect for warming up on those brutal November games.

Vizon Blanco or Reposado Tequila makes killer margaritas. And yes, they work in cold weather too! Mix 2 oz tequila, 1 oz orange cordial, and fresh lime juice for a classic that never goes out of style.

Beer Basics

Minnesota is blessed with incredible breweries. Offer at least two options: a crowd-pleasing light beer and something seasonal or crafty for the adventurous. Check out local favorites that represent our state's brewing pride. Summer brings shandies and session ales, while fall calls for something heartier.

Food Pairings That Win Every Time

The right food and drink combos can make or break your tailgate:

• Chili: Bold red wines like Cabernet or Zinfandel, dark beers, or whiskey-based cocktails
• Wings: Rosé wines, wheat beers, sparkling wines, or a classic Bloody Mary
• Bratwurst: Crisp white wines, German-style lagers, or Riesling for the perfect match
• Ribs: Malbec, bourbon cocktails, or craft IPAs that stand up to the sweet and spicy flavors
• Burgers: Red wines, domestic beers, or a Moscow Mule for something different
• Pizza: Light red wines, pilsners, or margaritas work great

Pro Tailgating Tips

• DO plan your drinks around your menu. Lighter fare pairs with lighter drinks, while hearty grilled foods need something that can stand up to bold flavors.
• DO bring non-alcoholic options and plenty of water. Staying hydrated keeps the party going all day long.
• DO arrive early to claim your spot and give yourself time to set up. The best tailgates aren't rushed.
• DON'T forget the ice! Better to have too much than run out by halftime.
• DON'T bring glass to parking lots. Stick with cans and plastic cups for safety.
• DON'T overindulge. Pace yourself and enjoy the entire game day experience from kickoff to the final whistle.

The Minnesota football season passes too quickly. Soon enough, we'll be back to drinking oatmeal stouts by the fireplace. So whether you're cheering on the Vikings, Gophers, or your favorite team (even the Packers), make this season memorable with the perfect tailgate spread.