| LCBO

Find your perfect pairing for the big game

" "

With the big game around the corner, you may be preparing your shopping list while planning to host friends and family. Once the menu is set, it’s time to stock the fridge with beverages from LCBO - from beer and ready-to-drink coolers and cocktails to light and refreshing wine. Here are some classic accompaniments to complement the tasty flavours of your favourite game day snacks.


“With these perfect pairings, you are now all set for game day and are sure to have a great party no matter which team wins.”


When you think about game day, beer is probably the first option that comes to mind, but have you considered the many local craft beers available in Ontario? Beer is a highly versatile option that pairs well with most snacks, especially a delicious tray of nachos. Loaded with your favourite toppings, nachos are an easy to throw together snack that is sure to be a hit with your guests. And why not pair those nachos with a Mexican-style lager? With many local options, this slightly malty lager is a light, easy sipper with a clean finish that won’t overwhelm bold flavours. Make sure to serve ice cold for maximum refreshment!

Are coolers and cocktails more your style? Pair those nachos with a refreshing tequila-based ready-to-drink cocktail so you won’t miss a moment of the game. These refreshing drinks come in many varieties and will cool your palate between bites. If you’re just in it for the half-time show, try making a lighter cocktail including a Winter Garden Highball. Combining Canadian whisky into a large highball glass with soda water, beet juice and star anise, this cocktail can be served with a fresh sage or rosemary garnish for even more amazing flavour.

No party would be complete without a basket of chicken wings. A tried and true classic sure to please your guests, wings can be prepared in your air fryer, on the stove, in the oven or delivered to your door with your preferred food delivery app. For bold and spicy wings, you’ll need a similarly big flavour beer to tackle those tasting notes. IPAs are the perfect pour when it comes to this game day classic snack. With many different styles available, from the fruity hops of West Coast IPAs to a lighter choice like a Session IPA, these beers offer a crisp finish your guests will love. With so many local Ontario options available at your fingertips, freshness is a guarantee.

Looking for another game day favourite to round out your menu? Keep the spice level up with jalapeno poppers. Also known as “armadillo eggs” these tex-mex treats are jalapeno peppers that have been scooped out and filled with cheese and spices before being breaded and deep-fried. Pair these snacks with an aromatic white wine like Riesling. With acidity and a fruit balanced flavour, Riesling is a light wine that is a great balance for fried and salty snacks. If you prefer red wine, a great option is a lightly tannic Gamay. A refreshing wine known for its floral notes and fresh finish, Gamay is a great companion for that spicy jalapeno heat.

With these perfect pairings, you are now all set for game day and are sure to have a great party no matter which team wins.