If you’re looking to create a fun event for your friends to gather and learn, you may be wondering how to host a wine tasting party.  With a few thoughtful touches, you can ensure a fun night for everyone and low stress for you!

How to Host a Wine Tasting Party at Home

Guest List

Let’s start with the guest list.  How many people should you invite to a wine tasting party?  Of course, this will depend on your space, but we find that 10-12 guests allows for comfortable conversation and interaction while keeping things manageable for the host.

Wine Selection

The star of the night is the wine, so you want to make sure you choose carefully.  5-7 selections with 2 bottles of each is ideal.  Here are a few suggestions to help you shop:

• Red: A light-bodied and a full-bodied option like a Pinot Noir and a Merlot
• White: A smooth Chardonnay and crisp Sauvignon Blanc
• Rosé: A refreshing, dry rosé
• Sparkling: A classic Champagne or Prosecco
• Fun Choice: A Sangria can be a fun and unexpected selection.

Bonus tip: Choose all the wines from one geographic area or winery.

Wine Tasting Essentials

Glasses: Provide each guest with a clear wine glass and use wine charms or labels to keep track of each person's glass.

Pour Bucket: Have a designated container for discarding small amounts of wine between tastings.

What Food To Serve at a Wine Tasting

Charcuterie boards are fun to create and enjoy.  Choose a variety of cheeses, meats, olives, nuts, and fruit for your guests to snack on and cleanse their palate between tastes.  Simple crackers and crusty bread are also an excellent addition for creating a neutral base for each wine.  Even though the night is all about wine, but sure to have water on hand and accessible for guests.

How to Host a Wine Tasting Party: Tasting Tips

Whether you are a wine connoisseur or novice, here are a few tips to share with your guests about what they should consider while tasting.  Create a tasting sheet with the wines listed so they can take notes.

• Look: Observe the wine's color, clarity, and viscosity.
• Smell: Swirl the wine in the glass and inhale deeply to detect aromas like fruit, flowers, oak, or spice.
• Taste: Take a small sip and roll the wine around your mouth to experience the flavors.
• Discuss: Encourage your guests to share their observations and notes.
  

Remember to pour small portions and encourage responsible drinking. Most importantly, relax, have fun, and enjoy the company of good friends and delicious wine!

Host a Wine Tasting Party with Grovedale Wines

If you want to take some of the guesswork out of selecting wines for your party, let Grovedale help!  Choose a variety of wines and we’ll ship them to you, making things even easier for you!  We hope with these tips you feel confident knowing how to host a wine tasting party!

Grovedale Winery is located in Wyaslusing, PA.  We are a family owned business that prides ourselves in offering guests a unique wine tasting experience in the beautiful Endless Mountains.  Our wines are produced in small lots, ensuring exceptional quality and flavor.  We are best known for our Sh!tshow wines, but offer varietals for every taste.  Visit the best PA winery in person or shop online today!