Pairing Orin Swift Wine to the Aston Villa football team at Villa Park!

I was quite nervous about hosting this tasting.
I am used to pairing wine to the cultural zeitgeist but this was the first time I had ever connected wine to football.
 
Wine and Football is actually not such an unusual pairing as one might think. Iconic winemakers and football teams both require resilience, skill, teamwork and committed fans.
 
 But the match here goes deeper..
 
Orin Swift’s wines and labels are renowned for their opulent characters, artistic flair and are known for having their fine Napa wine in unique places.
 
And although Aston Villa is a historic football club, it is supported by a vibrant loyal community that values their bold matchday experiences and memorable premium offerings.
 
This tasting was definitely memorable!
 
Was the bold 8 years in the Desert Zinfandel dramatic enough for the fiery goalie Martinez?
 
Could the Blank Stare Sauvignon Blanc match the energy and versatility of club striker Ollie Watkins?
 
As ever in football, the room was divided in opinions with boos and cheers throughout the evening. And yet it was one of the most animated and engaging events which I have ever done. I absolutely LOVED it!
 
It also proved that wine is the ultimate connector, bringing everyone in that room deep in conversation and excited about the wine in front of them. Even if they didn’t necessarily agree with my pairings… 🤣
 
Cheers Guys to unique events and unconventional pairings – I am here for it!