Summer is a quiet time for most wine events, but a great time to create your own! Here are a few tips:

• Decide how formal or informal you would like the party to be - arrange anything from a deck party to a dinner party. Cheese and crackers (nice for whites and light reds) to BBQ (try a light and spicy shiraz).

1. Find new and exciting cheeses you've never tried before, choose even something you might not like, others might find it delicious.

2. Search the internet for good wine and food match recipes.  

3. Begin a library of good cookbooks. 

• Request that all guests supply a bottle of wine, but keep the following in mind. 

  1.  Suggest a price range.
  (and let the prices remain unknown until after everyone has chosen their favorite).

  2. Choose a "theme".

  • For example - choose to taste one common varietal 
    (i.e. Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or a red such as Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, or Merlot)

  • Or-  choose a more uncommon varietal 
    (Greco di Tufo or Vionier for whites or Syrah and Shiraz in the reds).

  • Or- choose wines from one particular country - or state - or even region.

  • Chose wines from a particular Vineyard and try a vertical tasting

  • Choose wines from a particular vintage

  • Or- go in a different direction and suggest each guest bring a different varietal (this makes food pairing a bit more difficult) however you might be surprised at how each guest chooses a favorite food and wine match.

  • Be adventurous- 
    Make it a "blind" tasting - Wrap each bottle in foil (good for chilling whites) or place it in a bag, but keep it secret and enjoy the fun!

  3.  Supply a tasting sheet if possible and the occasion permits. This is a good way to get novice drinkers involved in the tasting.

4. If you're going to absorb the entire cost of the dinner, make sure to speak to your wine retailer about purchasing wines at a discounted case price.

• Keep the flatware and dinnerware appropriate to the occasion, but DO use a good quality wine glass.  If you do not have enough for all the guests think about renting stemware, it might not be as expensive as you think.
  

• The success of the party depends on the guest list.  Select a dynamic blend of invitees.  Mix guests in a way likely to encourage conversation.  Remember - the goal is to Have Fun!

• Finally - Be Responsible when serving alcohol in your home to guests who must drive home!

We'd love to hear from you!  What ideas do you have for hosting parties and tasting? Contact us!