Hosting a Wine PartyWritten by Nerello Glasure
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 don´t 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 d´oeuvres 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.
| | Learn about Chardonnay WineWritten by Nerello Glasure
The Chardonnay grape variety is a classic white wine grape grown all around world. It is at top, as probably world's favorite white grape variety. Where It Grows The Chardonnay grape grows everywhere. The exact origin of Chardonnay is hard to trace, but its reputation was established in Burgundy region of France. Winemakers love Chardonnay because vines are easy to grow, and have a high yield. Chardonnay is one of few grapes in world that does not require blending. However, it is also blended with Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier to produce Champagne. Wine Characteristics It is widely known for producing excellent full-bodied wines. The cooler zoned climate Chardonnay grapes produce an abundance of fruit flavors. You can pick up apple, pineapple, or hint of peach. The warmer climate Chardonnays may have less of fruits but develop wonderful honey, vanilla, and roasted flavors that really fill mouth.
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