With the Rugby World Cup just around the corner, we would like to pitch a radical change to how we all watch the Springboks. In the realm of sports watching, refreshments play a pivotal role in enhancing the overall experience. Beer has long been considered the go-to choice and most of us can’t imagine watching the green and gold without a frosty Castle in hand. But we’re here to say it’s time to set the beer aside as a new contender has emerged to steal the spotlight – Champagne. Beyond its association with celebrations and luxury, Champagne brings a unique set of qualities that make it an unexpected, but fitting, companion for the adrenaline-packed world of the rugby world cup.
A Touch of Elegance
Champagne has always been synonymous with class and sophistication. Its effervescence and the delicate dance of bubbles in a crystal flute instantly add an element of elegance to any occasion, including watching your favourite team on the screen. Replacing beer with Champagne elevates the rugby-watching experience from casual to refined, allowing viewers to indulge in a touch of luxury even during the most intense moments of the game.
There is, however, so much more to it than this. Champagne just happens to be the perfect companion to the oily, salty or greasy foods which are available in such vast quantities at the average rugby game. Unlike beer, champagne is a known palate cleanser, offering your mouth a crisp, dry reset after the cheesy chips, biltong and boerewors rolls. Champagne’s acidity and effervescence easily cut through those other flavours allowing you to eat even more of the chicken wings, braaibroodjies and samoosas, and isn’t that what it’s ultimately about? Champagne is a multisensory experience that enhances both the visual and olfactory elements of sports watching. The delicate aromas of citrus, apple, and floral notes in Champagne will complement just about any feast while also delivering far higher alcohol percentages, in fewer calories, than a mere beer, getting you in the mood quicker.
Celebrating Every Victory
While beer might be the drink of choice for casual matches, Champagne also brings an extra layer of significance to celebrating big occasions like the World Cup. Whether it’s the first try of the match or a game-changing play, raising a flute of Champagne in cheer elevates the moment, turning it into a triumph not just for the players but for the viewers as well. The sound of clinking glasses becomes a symphony of support, bonding fans together in the celebration of every achievement.
While absolutely not essential, why not go the extra mile and upgrade your accompaniments too? Champagne is the perfect partner to a plate of nachos, but it also works with gourmet burgers, sushi starters and Korean-style chicken wings or sour-cream, bacon and cheddar potato skins. Champagne’s versatility allows it to complement a wide range of flavours and takes your rugby world Cup watching party from the every day to the spectacular.
