With the global footie jamboree about to get underway in Russia, we should be in for some top entertainment. However, we are sure the question on everyone’s lips is not about who will be lifting the trophy in Moscow on 15 July, but ‘what wine should I drink while I’m watching the big games?’. Selecting the ideal case is as tricky as picking a starting line-up, so here’s our guide to what you should be looking for.
Formation 4-3-3 (plus goalie and manager). This selection is available with a 15% discount for all the duration of the tournament.
Goalkeeper
Whether you are stocking up online or buying from a wine merchant, this is the first bottle in your basket. It’s a safe option, reliable in terms of quality and you know it’s a solid fall-back if your other choices let you down.
Our lineup:
Defenders
Solid and full-bodied, occasionally earthy and unlikely to push the boundaries in terms of complexity. Chances are it is made with a single grape variety from a traditional wine producing region, and possibly with a couple of years of ageing for a more mature performance.
Our lineup:
Sweeper
With many of the same attributes as the defenders but a little more versatile so it is a good match for food in front of the telly, drinking on its own, or even for a barbecue if you are not tempted by Uruguay versus Saudi Arabia.
Our lineup:
Midfielders
A little lighter, well-balanced and brimming with flair that can occasionally take you by surprise. Cheaper versions can be a bit heavy, so opt for the more silky production styles. There is also the added bonus of having the ability to finish well.
Our lineup:
Forwards
Often from a higher profile producer and made from better-known grape varieties. Can sometimes be overrated and overpriced. But choose carefully and you should benefit from a selection that delivers against expectations, is often an award winner, and should have a good finish.
Our lineup:
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Riesling Hallgarten Rheinschiefer Trocken VDP, Ortswein, Peter Jakob Kuhn, Rheingau, Germany
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'Les Granières de la Nerthe' Chateauneuf du Pape, Chateau La Nerthe, Southern Rhone, France
Manager
Always leads the celebrations when things go according to plan but can be a bit sickly sweet if the wrong one is given the job. Often draws on various influences. Always bubbling under and liable to pop at any time if not handled carefully.
Our lineup:
Full lineup
(Illustration by Scallie)
