While many may see tailgating as synonymous with beer, indulge in a classier approach and introduce wine into the mix. Branching out with wine can elevate your tailgating experience by offering a range of pairings that complement popular dishes and snacks often enjoyed during these pre-game socials.

"The secret to a successful wine and food pairing is the acidity of the wine. Your wine's acid content should be as high, if not higher, than the food you're eating," advised Amanda McCrossin, a sommelier and host of the Wine Access Unfiltered podcast. However, she added, your personal preferences should dictate your decision, not some unwritten wine rule.

McCrossin went on to share her favored matches for typical tailgate food. Fried foods work well with most wines due to their lower acidity. Sparkling wines, renowned for their high acidity, tend to be an excellent fit with fried treats.

In terms of sparkling wines, McCrossin highlighted Gloria Ferrer Carneros Cuvée, a wine aged for eight years that offers a refreshing, acidic, and texturous appeal. She also mentioned Cruse Wine Co., known for standout sparkling wines, notably their pét-nat style White Zinfandel.

Regarding white wines, McCrossin favored Riesling, a versatile grape fit for paired with a variety of foods. Alsatian Riesling from Famille Hugel was her recommended pick for spicy tailgate meals. As a founding member of Primum Familiae Vini, a generations-old family wine association, Famille Hugel's Riesling is a perfect match for complexly seasoned dishes. Massican Annia California white wine was another of her suggestions for intricate dishes, made up of Tokai Friulano, Ribolla Gialla, and Chardonnay.

Cheese at tailgates can be challenging due to its deceptive acidity concealed by its creamy texture. McCrossin advised rosé wines as an ideal pairing, thanks to their high acidity. Hirsch Vineyards produces an apt choice, especially to balance the acidity found in fresh goat cheese.

For meat-based dishes, pork in particular, McCrossin recommended red wines - especially those with tannins. Brewer-Clifton Winery's Pinot Noir rose as a loved choice for serving with ham or roast pork. Chianti Classico, known for its ideal pairing with heavy, saucy meats, was another McCrossin's choice for dishes like Bolognese or barbecued brisket. She highlighted Tenuta Di Arceno as a popular Chianti Classico choice for tailgate gatherings.

Lastly, McCrossin shared a wildcard pairing with a fortified wine, Dry Madeira. Known for its illusionary sweetness, it can add an unexpected twist when served with meats like Southern brisket or sliders. In McCrossin's words, "It's your brain that tricks you into thinking there's sugar. But it's not."

With these tips, take your tailgating party to a whole new level with varied and unexpected wine pairings that guarantee an unforgettable experience.