INSPIRATION: Wine-Tasting Theme

Winter months bring about warm, robust-flavored pastas and hearty soups.  Wine is an excellent complement to these flavors.  Wine tastings are a chance to allow your guests to experience wines that they may not have had the opportunity to taste before, or, perhaps, have never thought to purchase in the store.    It is important to include no more than a handful of wines, because you want your pallet to concentrate on its taste buds, and not let a “drunkenly-impaired” mind get in the way. 

Some people may opt to choose wines with the same vintage, grape varietal, or brand.  I chose an eclectic group of wines, varied grape varietals from wide-ranging regions, all imported by Monsieur Touton.  Here are the list of wines that were served:

            (1)    Andre Delorme Sparkling Wine (France)– used to cleanse the pallet  

(2)    Tomaiolo Pinot Grigio (Italy) – goes well with cheese and fruit appetizers

(3)    Chimney Creek Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand) – complements light green salad

(4)    Alain Corcia Bourgogne Pinot Noir (France) – main course

(5)    Agua de Piedra Grand Reserve Malbec (Argentina) – main course

(6)    Cantina Gabriele Moscato (Italy) – sweet, dessert wine served with cake

Necessary elements for a successful wine tasting:

(1) A server – pour each guest’s glass with 1-2 oz. of each wine varietal

(2) Spittoon “spit bucket”- to pour out any extra left in the glass or to spit (some people may have to drive home)

(3)  Scoring/Recording Sheet – allows guests to rate each wine, so they can  remember the name of the wine and its rating when they return home

(4) Glasses -flute to serve champagne/sparkling wine, 2 wine glasses (white/red)

Unique ways to incorporate the wine theme into your party:

(1)     Wine cork place card holders

(2)     Wine favors (always good to include the same wines that you served)

(3)    Wine-colored decor (flowers, table runners, etc)

(4)    Grape and cork embellishments

(5)    “Stock the bar” wishing well - Have guests bring items to help the guest-of-honor stock their wine bar

(6)    Food gift baskets that compliment the various flavors of the wines

(7)    Wine Shelf Talkers – provide summary of wine’s region, taste and rating