In my hometown, the pouring of the grape has become the go-to event among partiers of all ages. Adult ages, that is. Whether the goal is fundraising, education or just plain enjoyment, with proper planning, a wine tasting can be easy and lots of fun for both hosts and guests.
In fact, it’s all about the planning, because this is one occasion you’ll want to enjoy right alongside your friends and fellow wine connoisseurs. Once you get the usual facts out of the way, such as date, time, location, etc., you’ll want to prepare your guest list.
Know your invitees and their tastes. Do they lean more toward Chardonnay or Sangria? Your selection of wines begins here, and will set the mood for your event. You should determine how many, and which types, of wine you’ll pour. For the average tasting, I recommend pouring two whites, two reds, one dessert and perhaps a sixth wine of your choice, something new or out of the ordinary. Be creative!
If your event is a fundraiser, see if your local wine merchants are willing to donate or discount some selections in return for recognition at your event. Some will even participate by sending a pourer who is knowledgeable about wine to answer questions.
Elaborate party fare is not necessary. Feel free to place simple, complimentary snacks alongside your wines, such as crackers, breads, fruits and cheeses. Even chocolate has been successfully paired with some vintages! Experts recommend sticking by the more milder snacks so as not to upstage the real stars of the day, the wine.
Be sure to allow adequate time for your party. You certainly don’t want your guests to feel rushed! Place your wines at different “stations,” pairing colors together. While you may be tempted to use plastic, especially if your affair is outdoors, consider buying inexpensive (or renting, for larger parties) real glass. Let your guests know they are important to you. If your budget permits, get both red wine and white wine glasses. The wine will taste better in glass, too.
Prepare the wine in advance. Even a budget white wine will taste much better if properly chilled. Reds should be slightly cooler than room temperature, and be allowed to “breathe” for an hour before pouring.
Rotate your volunteer pourers so everyone can have a chance to taste. Have plenty of cold, bottled water on hand. You can opt for sophisticated, measured pouring spouts, or let your pourers eyeball the amount to offer based on the anticipation of the tasters! Purists may wish to use discard buckets for expelling wine after tasting, presumably to avoid becoming inebriated while “tasting” a number of wines. Place pitchers of plain water alongside the buckets for those guests wishing to rinse their glasses between wines.
Depending upon the goal of your event, you may wish to provide “tasting cards” and pencils at each station, encouraging guests to notate their findings about the wine. If the wine is for sale, a descriptive price list or order form should be available.
If your tasting is outdoors, be cognizant of the action of the sun, and place your wine stations in covered or shady areas. Plan for how you will keep the wines cool or cold and the snacks fresh throughout the day (or evening.)
Again, preparation is the key. Thoughtful planning will ensure an enjoyable wine tasting for both you and your wine-loving friends!
