The arrival of crisp sunny days, brilliant fall color and, of course, football signals a very important time of year for sports fans and the gastronomically inclined: tailgating season.

Pre-game cuisine runs the gamut, from standard beer, brats and burgers to gourmet offerings that would make any food critic proud. The truth is, tailgating is a great opportunity to get creative, and Sonoma-Cutrer wines are the perfect pairing for an upscale spread.

If you’re ready to step up your tailgating game, consider a global approach, treating your friends and fellow fans to exotic flavors they’ve never experienced in a parking lot before.

While nothing says tailgate like firing up a grill, hot dogs and burgers can get old. Instead, look to Asia for a little inspiration. Uncork a bottle of Russian River Ranches Pinot Noir and throw some Korean-style short ribs on the grill. Watch heads turn as the aromas of garlic, ginger and soy sauce hit the air. Easy-to-eat chicken satay skewers served with peanut sauce and curry chicken wings are other ideas for grilling up delicious Asian flavors.

If you’re short on time, look, to Latin America for flavorful finger foods you can pick up at your local farmers market or neighborhood takeout spot. Empanadas and tamales are ideal tailgating fare, and are filled with an array of savory and sweet flavor combinations. Serve your sports fans empanadas stuffed with pork, veal and pickled onions to braised beef or spicy chorizo tamales.

If you planned ahead, add avocado fries, a popular street food South of the Border to your menu. Or, mix up a batch of scallop ceviche just before you leave, and it will be perfect by the time you park for the big game. Both make a lovely pair for a crisp glass of Russian River Ranches Chardonnay.

To round out your moveable feast, opt for a convenient screw cap bottle of your favorite Sonoma-Cutrer served in tailgate-friendly plastic stemless glasses- Always be sure to pack plenty of extras – your impressive spread may attract new friends.