BASEBALL SEASON IS OFFICIALLY BACK!
Baseball and beer may be the classic pairing, but for those who want a more refined game-day experience, wine is the perfect alternative. A long afternoon of baseball in the summer heat calls for refreshing, crisp, and easy-drinking wines that enhance the experience without overpowering it.
Whether you’re watching the game at home, tailgating outside the stadium, or catching the action from a rooftop bar, here are the best wines to sip while enjoying America’s pastime.
1. Crisp White Wines for Hot Summer Days
White wines are a natural fit for a warm afternoon baseball game. They’re refreshing, light, and easy to sip over several innings.
Sauvignon Blanc – The Ultimate Game-Day White
-
A zesty, citrus-forward Sauvignon Blanc is perfect for sipping under the sun.
-
Pair with: Grilled chicken, shrimp tacos, or classic ballpark nachos.
-
Top picks: Cloudy Bay (New Zealand), Duckhorn (California), Pascal Jolivet (Loire Valley).
Chardonnay (Unoaked) – A Smooth, Mellow Option
-
Unoaked Chardonnay is light and crisp, making it a great alternative to heavier versions.
-
Pair with: Popcorn, grilled fish, or turkey club sandwiches.
-
Top picks: La Crema (California), Domaine Leflaive (Burgundy), Kim Crawford (New Zealand).
Albariño – A Spanish Refreshment
-
This floral, citrusy white wine has the perfect balance of acidity and fruitiness for a laid-back summer day.
-
Pair with: Seafood, soft pretzels with mustard, or a charcuterie board.
-
Top picks: Pazo de Señorans, Bodegas Fillaboa, Martin Codax.
2. Rosé for a Light and Fun Baseball Experience
Rosé is the ultimate summer sipper—it’s light, refreshing, and versatile, making it ideal for watching baseball.
Provence Rosé – A Classic Summer Staple
-
Dry, crisp, and packed with red fruit flavors, this wine is a go-to for warm afternoons.
-
Pair with: Grilled sausages, fresh salads, or soft cheeses.
-
Top picks: Whispering Angel, Château d’Esclans, Miraval.
Sparkling Rosé – For a Little Extra Fun
-
A lightly effervescent rosé keeps the energy up for an exciting extra-innings game.
-
Pair with: Fried chicken, BBQ sliders, or fresh fruit.
-
Top picks: Moët & Chandon Rosé Imperial, Schramsberg Brut Rosé, Billecart-Salmon Rosé.
3. Light Reds for When the Game Goes into the Evening
If the game stretches into the later innings and the sun starts to set, a light red wine can be the perfect choice.
Pinot Noir – A Smooth, Easy-Drinking Red
-
Low in tannins and full of bright cherry and raspberry flavors, Pinot Noir is a great red wine for a summer afternoon.
-
Pair with: Burgers, hot dogs, or grilled mushrooms.
-
Top picks: Meiomi (California), Domaine Drouhin (Oregon), Louis Jadot (Burgundy).
Beaujolais – The Ultimate Chillable Red
-
A fruity, low-alcohol red that can be served slightly chilled, making it ideal for warm weather.
-
Pair with: Smoked sausages, pizza, or BBQ chicken.
-
Top picks: Georges Duboeuf, Château Thivin, Jean Foillard.
4. Sparkling Wines for a Championship-Worthy Toast
If your team is winning big, celebrate in style with a glass of bubbly.
Prosecco – Light, Refreshing, and Perfect for Summer
-
Crisp and slightly sweet, Prosecco is an easygoing sparkling wine that fits any baseball occasion.
-
Pair with: Fried foods, mozzarella sticks, or shrimp cocktail.
-
Top picks: La Marca, Mionetto, Nino Franco.
Champagne – For the Ultimate Celebration
-
A premium Champagne is the perfect way to toast a walk-off home run.
-
Pair with: Oysters, truffle fries, or lobster rolls.
-
Top picks: Veuve Clicquot, Dom Pérignon, Ruinart Blanc de Blancs.
Final Thoughts
Switching from beer to wine on game day is a great way to elevate your experience while still enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of baseball. Whether you prefer a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a refreshing rosé, or a light Pinot Noir, there’s a perfect wine for every inning.
So next time you settle in for an afternoon baseball game, pour yourself a glass, kick back, and enjoy the action—because baseball and wine make a winning team. ⚾🍷