So you want to plan a wine tasting party! All parties need a theme of some sort, and who doesn’t love a chance to try a variety of new wines and experiment with food pairings.
Nearly half of all wine consumed in the US all year is drank during the holidays! If you’re planning a small soiree at your place, I’ve got a few ideas for wine party themes that just might make your event the highlight of the season.
Rule number one – use wine glasses even if you have to rent them. No plastic allowed! You should also plan for 2 to 3 glasses of wine per person. Each 750 ml bottle serves about 5 standard 4.5 oz glasses.
My friends at H-E-B recommend opening red wine 20 minutes prior to serving to let the wine breathe. Also remove white wines from the refrigerator 20 minutes prior to serving so it’s not too chilled.
Additional Themes to Consider…
Uncork that Keeper:
Bring the Bottle You’ve Been Saving – We all buy wine with the plan to save it for a special occasion.’ Well, every day is special! Life can throw some unexpected curve balls, so why not celebrate at every opportunity. Ask your guests to bring that bottle they’ve been saving. Pop open a few of yours too!
Sparklings Only:
ANY time is a good time for champagne, and perhaps no other wine pairs better with just about any food item. There are so many varieties of sparkling wines – Italian Proseccos, Spanish Cavas, American sparklings, French Champagnes… let your guests try them all.
There are some noticeable taste differences AND price differences too. We have rec’s from $9 to $39! The latter price belongs to this Domaine Carneros by Taittinger Brut Rose NV [right]…dry, intense layered flavor with an elegant texture made for holiday fare.
A Tuscan Holiday:
The weather this time of year begs for some robust reds, and many of the Super Tuscans and wines of central Italy are perfect. One of my go-to sommeliers, Wine Manager Sean Ballesteros at the Bunker Hill HEB suggests these big reds…
“Elevated” Eats:
The food is almost as important as the wine. My advice – keep it simple. After all, you want to have fun at your own party. The less stress the better.
I fell in love with this dramatic charcuterie display idea…after all, we do eat with our eyes. The grandioseness of it is fun and the selection of meats and accoutrements is extensive. Plus, as hostess, you can easily keep the display loaded with food throughout the evening.
For more delicious recipes and fun food and wine pairing ideas, subscribe to my newsletter.
Leave a Reply