Winter is here, which means there’s no shortage of sporting events that draw crowds to various televisions and fill a host’s kitchen island with game-day favorites.

Sure, there’s always beer, but in our effort to always be helpful, we asked (only slightly selfishly), “What about wine?”

Fortunately, Julie Kushel, a certified sommelier, answered our question and uncorked some great game-day wine pairings to complement the comfort foods found at every gathering.

So next time you’re headed out to support your team, check this guide to see what to bring that will compliment each and every bite.

Here’s what Julie suggests:

Seven layer dip 

GSM Grenache Syrah Mouvedre or a red Rhone blend for fruit & spice.

Even a Beaujolais flare, enough to give layers of flavor with zero clash.

A white German Riesling would also pair with the richness for a harmonious choice.

Spinach and artichoke dip 

Pinot Grigio’s  citrus and herbaceous notes compliment the creaminess, while the fuller body of Pinot Gris can stand up to more savory styles. Artichokes are quite difficult to pair, so any wine higher in acid and salinity is a sure fit.

Buffalo chicken dip

A Chenin Blanc from Vouvray balances the cheesy texture. 

Riesling is perfect for the dip’s heat and gives your palate a zest without fatigue of flavor.

Buffalo chicken wings

A nice spicy red Zinfandel would be perfect. A little bit on the sweeter jammer side. Lodi California pick. Bold and tangy

Potato skins

Syrah for the savory notes, especially with bacon. Also, a sparkling wine like Franciacorta from Italy helps temper the richness of any topping like cheese on a wonderful, earthy potato.

Pigs in a blanket

Rosé Champagne can stand up to the salt and the pastry of the wrap, especially with the acid.

Chili

Malbec is perfect for a robust meat dish especially with that smoky and earthy flavor.  A Sauvignon Blanc with the citrus also will mesh with the cilantro and jalapeno flavors.

Cheese Balls

California Pinot Noir plays with especially soft cheeses that have earthy and nutty flavors. If caramelized onions are incorporated, the decadence of a creamy, oaky Chardonnay is perfect.

Philly cheesesteak

Any varietal of a Bordeaux Blend is perfect. They have components of bell peppers, black pepper ,and acid to pair any components to a Philly cheesesteak. Want something unique? Try  a Prosecco to add to the toasty flavors of the bread.

Pizza

Keep it Italian with Sangiovese from Chianti. It’s light and lively. For a more elevated style,

pair with a Barbera, which is still a robust style with versatility that can compliment tomato, sausage and even mushrooms without being too heavy. For a unique bubble to pair with a veggie pizza, try a Pét-nat, which is short for “pétillant naturel,” a French term meaning “naturally sparkling.” A Lambrusco with a mushroom pizza or any topping such as ham or prosciutto is a great match.

Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers

A spicy dish with savory elements and creaminess is perfect for a semi-sweet wine. Try a Gewurztraminer as well as a New Zealand Pinot Noir for a cherry note to compliment the bacon.

Most importantly, drink what you enjoy & yeah sports.