By Drew
It has been quite some time since Super Bowl XXIX, where Steve Young (my childhood idle) torched the Chargers… It’s been a long road back to greatness, and one that has tested the mettle of the 49er Faithful. This year’s 49ers Super Bowl team is as diverse as the wines of the world. So lets take a look at what some of my favorite players on the 49ers have in common with some of the more well know grape varietals:
Justin “Cowboy” Smith – Nebbiolo à Strong in stature and better with age
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Patrick Willis – Valley Floor Cabernet Sauvignon à A bold and timeless player that solidifies the 49ers Defense.
Navarro Bowman – Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon à A linebacker at 6’2” with structure and continuity on the field
Dashon Goldson – Zinfandel à Packs a Wallop!
Aldon Smith – Syrah à Capable of being complex and distinctive. Pepper, black cherry, tar, and nice tannins.
Randy Moss – Merlot à A sure Hall of Famer, but with a few years of being misunderstood. Brings years of experience to the wide receiver core -a classic Bordeaux varietal.
Michael Crabtree – Moscato à Having a career season. Has the ability pick up yards after the catch.
Vernon Davis – Grenache à Spicy with supple tannins. A team player that has the ability to dazzle when in the spotlight.
Frank Gore – Cabernet Franc à Can be intense and full-bodied. Best when combined with a good air attack like Merlot. Think Cheval-Blanc, where the blend is made up of about 60% Cab Franc and 40% Merlot.
The Offensive Line – Petite Sirah à With firm tannins, this group brings notes of intensity, pepper and ageworthyness to the battle in the trenches. Just like Petite Sirah, you’re in for a pop in the mouth with this crew.
Colin Kaepernick – Pjnot Noir à It is a product of its environment and, like Kaep, has a huge array to offer: black cherry, raspberry, spice, roses, tar, earth, cola. At times can sit in the pocket and deliver a huge strike and at other times can break a long run. Pinot Noir can be one of the hardest varietals to evaluate in the barrel, but fortunately for the 49ers, Harbaugh was on it.
Best of luck to the 49ers on Sunday!!!