🔔 Stay Updated!

Get instant alerts on breaking news, top stories, and updates from News EiSamay.

From Tequila to Icewine: The Drinks Trail of the 2026 World Cup

There is a long-standing tradition of watching football while enjoying one’s favourite drinks. You would see bustling pubs in London or Madrid on match days of EPL or La Liga.

By Kunal Basu

Jun 10, 2026 17:07 IST

The World Cup is no exception. Of course, the local pubs in host cities will welcome football fans with open arms. But there will be several aficionados who will venture out from cities to taste the history and culture of a region through its drinks.

Who would not love to visit the Pueblo Magico town of Tequila while staying in Guadalajara? Tequila is produced from the blue agave plant. The town of Tequila is 60 kilometres northwest of Guadalajara. Tourists often take the famous train ride from Guadalajara to Tequila to visit agave fields and tequila distilleries. Guadalajara will host four matches from 11th to 26th June, including Spain vs Uruguay. The town of Tequila is expected to attract thousands of visitors during the tournament.

The other two Mexican host cities can also claim their presence on the map of alcoholic drinks. Mexico City offers a thriving beer culture, from traditional Mexican lagers to modern craft breweries. Both Mexico City and Monterrey offer mezcal bars. Unlike tequila, which is produced from blue agave plants, this smoky spirit called mezcal is derived from various agave plants.

The USA has different host cities with various alcoholic identities. San Francisco lies within easy reach of two of America’s best-known wine regions – Napa Valley and Sonoma County. The regions are renowned for Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, producing some of the country’s most celebrated red and white wines.

Also Read | How will FIFA work out the enhanced offside technology At World Cup 2026?

Bourbon enthusiasts can head to Louisville and Lexington in Kentucky, the heartland of America’s bourbon industry. Kentucky produces 95 per cent of the world’s bourbon supply. Both cities are just a short flight from Atlanta, one of the host cities in the US.

Those looking for a break from spirits can explore Seattle’s celebrated coffee culture, which is home to Starbucks. Independent cafes across the city serve everything from drip coffee to expertly crafted espresso. The region is also home to a growing number of distilleries producing acclaimed American single malts.

Also Read | Will FIFA World Cup 2026 be the last for Lionel Messi? Argentina coach responds clearly

Canada has two host cities: Toronto and Vancouver. Both cities, particularly the surrounding wine regions, are known for icewine. This dessert wine is produced from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine. The grapes must be harvested under precise winter conditions, making production difficult and helping explain its premium price.

Articles you may like: