Netflix And Sip: Best Wines To Pair With Your Favorite TV Shows

Admit it: It's fun to throw on a blanket and binge-watch TV. With abundant streaming services—Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, there are more high quality shows now than ever. While many of you may have a go-to snack, but how about the perfect drink? 

To make your binge-watching session even better, I asked several experts for the best show and wine pairings. Here are their top picks, cheers!

Billions

When you’re watching a show fueled by power and complexity, you need to drink a rich, full-bodied and multi-layered wine. Paul Hobbs’ Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard—a 2014 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($350/bottle)—certainly fits the bill.

Much like the show’s intriguing plot twists, the opulent flavors—of dark fruit, contrasting bright cherries and anise—layer over esoteric flavors of new leather. Hobbs frames his wine with a satisfying tannic texture, which drives you through a powerful and provocative finish.However, “if you're stretching a salary at the DA's office, go for a more accessible Cabernet from Julien Fayard like the 2016 Idiosyncrasy Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($45/bottle).” Created in a premier vineyard site by one of Napa’s top winemakers, this Cabernet displays just the right mix of bold and powerful qualities that characterize Axe and Chuck.

—Vanessa Conlin: Head of Wine for Wine Access 

The Crown

If you want to feel as royal as Queen Elizabeth, the 1907 Madeira D'Oliveiras Malvasia 1907 ($825/bottle) is a must-try. As a long-time favorite of British royalty since 1455, Madeira wines have found its way into British history on several occasions. In 1455, the popular Portuguese wines were notably banned from Charles II’s broad importation ban of all European wares. In 1478, the Duke of Clarence—brother of Edward VI—received a death sentence for treason, and he decided to drown in a barrel of Madeira. History aside, this wine will charm you with its "complex yet sweet flavors along with hints of dried apricot, quince and caramel."

Meanwhile, for those with a less regal budget, pick the NV Ridgeview “Bloomsbury” Brut ($36/bottle). “Made in South Sussex, this English Quality Sparkling Wine was the official wine served for Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012 and has refreshing notes of citrus, apples and sweet honey.”

—Bill Burkhart, Sommelier at The Grill Room in the Windsor Court Hotel, New Orleans

Game of Thrones

When I think of Game of Thrones, I think of magical dragons, the impending threat of a long winter and a race to the throne. So what should you pour before catching the final season’s premiere? I would suggest a burgundy. As an extension of GoT’s ‘tale of medieval intrigue,’ I reckon Charles the Great’s favorite wine—Pinot Noir—could be an excellent choice for setting the mood. In particular, I'd recommend splurging on the 2011 Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret Richebourg Grand Cru ($349/bottle)—a highly elegant wine with complex and rich flavors such as ripe strawberry and cinnamon notes, resulting in a velvety feeling on the palate.

— Jon Griffiths, Corporate Beverage Director of Datz Restaurant Group in Tampa, Florida

As a cheaper—but no less impressive—alternative, the official Game of Thrones Pinot Noir 2016 ($15 to $27/bottle on Drizly) is a must-try for wine-drinkers and GoT fans alike. Beyond its inspiration by the show’s “complexity and nuances, the wine also has nobility and pedigree tied to its premium vineyard sources in the Willamette Valley of Oregon.” This pays tribute to the lineage of the noble houses of the Seven Kingdoms, which is further enhanced by the imprinted corks with either the House Tyrell or House Martell sigil.Click to read full article