Looking to have some fun with friends while sharing some wine? You should consider hosting a wine tasting party. It's a really neat way to share your wine favorites and to be introduced to a variety of new and interesting wines. You can also add some spice to your fun by using a wine theme ("All About Reds", "Blindfold Tasting", etc.).Party Size You donŽt need a lot of guests to have a great party. What I have found works best is to have about four to twelve people, and definitely include yourself as one of
registered guests. Also, I like to always have a contest during
party and give away a gift.
Theme Selection Pick a fun theme, and remember
theme also determines what wines will be poured. You can name a theme like "The Great Italians", "The Great Whites of California", or whatever fits your mood. I would suggest being very creative,
possibilities are endless. If you tell your local wine merchant your theme, they can be a great source of help with wine and theme matching. Also, at a minimum make sure you have 4 to 6 different wine types to taste.
Food Choices Have you heard
saying "First
wine, then your menu"? If you had a theme for your party and your wines followed that theme, you may want to carry it through with whatever food you serve. For example if you are tasting Italian Reds why not serve some Italian munchies to match.
While you do need to provide foods that complement
wines provided,
food should not
backbone of
party. Focus on
dŽoeuvres such as: cheese, fruit, unsalted crackers, bread or other munchies you may have prepared for
evening. Don not forget to have lots of bottled room temperature water and optional spit buckets available.
When all
tasting is done, you may want to have plenty of coffee and desserts. This is also a great time to break out one of your favorite dessert wines.