Your Guide to Hosting an Unforgettable Wine Tasting

Hosting a wine tasting can be a delightful way to explore new wines, entertain guests, and refine your palate.

With a single variety tasting, try the blind tasting format, in which the identity of the wines is revealed after tasting. This adds an additional learning element to the experience.

A well-executed wine tasting combines education with enjoyment, and we’re here to help you ensure your tasting is a memorable experience for everyone.

1. Regional Themes
 

· Italy: You might start with the quintessential Italian sparkling wine, Prosecco, served with antipasti. Then progress to a red wine such as Chianti Classico and explore Southern Italy with red wines like Nero d'Avola and Salice Salentino. Complement the red wines with a make-your-own pizza station or lasagna. Conclude the tasting with espresso and biscotti and an Amaro digestivo.

· Spain: You could begin with Cava or a dry Spanish white like Albarino. Serve tapas or a paella along with Rioja Reserva. Set the mood with flamenco music to enhance the experience.
 

2. Single Variety Tastings
 

· White Wines: You could select a Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Pinot Grigio.

· Red Wines: Perhaps select a Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Malbec and Merlot.

Expert Insight: “Themes like regional or varietal tastings can significantly enhance the tasting experience, making it both educational and enjoyable,” says Eric Hemer, Senior Vice President of Wine Education at Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, and a Master Sommelier and Master of Wine.

1. Selecting and Serving Wines

· Wine Selection: Choose four to six varietals for a diverse experience. Ensure you have a mix of reds and whites when hosting a mixed tasting.

· Temperature: Chill white wines to their ideal serving temperature (45-50°F) and let reds come to slightly below room temperature (60-65°F).

2. Setting Up the Tasting Area

· Glassware: Provide one glass per wine for each guest. Use clean, odor-free glasses to avoid affecting the wine’s aroma.

· Tasting Setup: Place each wine bottle in a numbered paper bag. This will help guests focus on the wine itself rather than the label.

Expert Tip: “Presentation is key. Numbering the bottles and using a simple setup allows guests to concentrate on the wine’s characteristics,” Hemer says.

1. Guiding the Experience

· Pouring: Serve 2 oz. of each wine per guest. Ensure glasses are prepped with a sheet of paper, numbered to correspond with each wine.

· Palate Cleansing: Provide water and crackers for palate cleansing between wines.

2. Engaging with Guests

· Descriptive Language: Encourage guests to describe the wines using common tasting notes. Use guides to help in understanding terms like “tannic,” “fruity,” or “oaky.”

· Interactive Discussion: Have each guest share their impressions and guesses about the wine varieties.

Expert Tip: “Facilitating discussion and using descriptive language makes the tasting more engaging and educational,” says Laura DePasquale, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations at Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, and a Master Sommelier.

1. Tasting Notes

· Record Impressions: Have the guests write down their thoughts on each wine’s appearance, aroma, taste, and finish.

· Guessing Game: Ask everyone to guess each wine’s varietal or origin and keep track of any correct guesses.

2. Awards and Prizes

· Prize for Accuracy: Offer a small prize, such as a special bottle of wine, for the guest with the most correct guesses.

Expert Insight: “Incorporating a guessing game adds an element of fun and competition to the tasting,” Hemer says.

Hosting a wine tasting is an opportunity to immerse yourself and your guests in the world of wine, enhance your palate, and enjoy some great social time. By choosing a thoughtful theme, preparing well, and engaging your guests, you can create an unforgettable experience.