Rugby fever kicks off on September 8 and The Table Bay hotel will be showing all the matches live in the Union Bar. On top of that, its skilled bartenders will be making sure fans can celebrate and support their favourite countries with specially matched drinks. 

So, when host France takes on New Zealand in the opening game, sip on a Kir Royale - creme de cassis and Champagne, or Cap Classique here in South Africa. New Zealand is famous for its Sauvignon Blanc, so choose something from the extensive wine list to get into the spirit. Interestingly enough, the beverage most-drunk in New Zealand is water, but unless you have special reasons it’s not going to make for a very festive rugby-watching experience.

It’s a cracker of an opening weekend. After the launch on the 8th, there are five matches on Saturday the 10th. Raise a glass to the country you support with drinks like gin and tonic or Malbec (England v Argentina); Windhoek lager or Aperol spritz (Namibia v Italy); Jameson’s or Țuică plum brandy (Ireland v Romania); and a craft beer or Chacha, which is similar to Italian grappa (Australia v Georgia). 

With its origins in France, Malbec is Argentina’s signature red wine. Its flavour profiles include blackberry, plum and black cherry, as well as milk chocolate, cocoa powder, violet flowers, leather, and, depending on the amount of oak aging, a sweet tobacco finish.

The Union Bar has a fine range of gins, including South African craft gins. Ask the bartender to recommend the best tonic to pair with each one. 

Windhoek lager is a no-brainer if you’re rooting for Namibia, but if Italy is your team, there are so many drinks to choose from: Aperol spritz is a crowd-pleaser, but for a sophisticated cocktail a Negroni with equal parts Campari, gin and vermouth rosso, is an elegant must.

Popular drinks in Romania and Georgia are plum brandy and Chacha respectively. If not readily available, KWV brandy can be substituted; and Chacha is made in a similar manner as grappa. For Australian enthusiasts, beer and wine are always a good option. Romania’s opponent is Ireland and the first thoughts are a pint of Guinness or a tot or two of smooth whiskey  like Jameson’s.

Of course, everyone will be out in full force on September 10 when the Springboks go head-to-head with Scotland at 5.45pm. Patriots can toss back Springbokkies - Amarula Cream and peppermint liqueurs, layered - or any local wine, spirit or beer; we are equal opportunity rugby devotees when it comes to our boys in gold and green. If you’re brave enough to cheer for Scotland, do it with a top shelf whisky.

Go bokke!