The key to maintaining a natural flow at parties that feature wine is to divide the event space into zones. High tables located around the perimeter are ideal for displaying pairings. Low rise club chairs along with coffee tables allow for easy casual conversation over cocktails, cider or beer. Standard-height circular tables paired with Chiavari chairs create a lounge area with a versatility to accommodate drinks and/or small finger food platters.
Since wine pairings use primers, such as cinnamon or vanilla, to enhance palate characteristics, be sure to identify each wine with easy-to-read signs and also display primers on pans and plates. To add a designer touch to the table, create floral arrangements inspired by the colors and textures found in vineyards, such as purples and cork.
Add a personalized touch to your tasting tables with conversation bubble boards. Trace a speech bubble shape to 1/4" luan using a pencil. Cut out the traced shape with a jigsaw, sand the edges with a sanding block, then apply two coats of black chalkboard paint. To create a stand ,pick up a peg and matching wooden disc base at the craft store, then attach the thought bubble board to the top of the peg with hot glue.Use chalk to identify the featured wine, as well as the primers that accompany him.
Bring rustic, vineyard-inspired charm to your wine tasting with floral arrangements reminiscent of wildflowers found in vineyards and on farms. Ditch the standard glass vases and use rustic wooden containers instead. For a variety of colors, shapes, and textures, mix Merlot-toned hydrangeas with leafy greens, herbs, wildflowers, and small bunches of grapes.
Professional chefs and food stylists use classic white plates for a proper presentation of their culinary creations. White ramekins are the best choice for showcasing primers, which are small bites and flavors used to bring out the flavor of a particular wine. When contrasted with white, the actual colors and textures of foods show up more clearly.
Wall mounted wine bottle racks are a great way to include a wine tasting in your decor. This also offers a way for wine bottles intended for the party to double up as art until opened, or for empty bottles to be put on display once used.
Cabernet glasses have deeper bowls than other wine glasses. This additional depth allows the wine to breathe, enhancing the nature of its flavor.
Stemless glasses are great for parties, and there's a good reason their popularity has skyrocketed in recent years. The lack of a stem makes them less likely to tip over when people crowd around tables and counters. Plus, they're easier to grip while standing and talking, since the bottom of the glass nestles securely in the palm of your hand.
White wine glasses have narrower openings at the top than other glasses. As white wine is served cold, it is also recommended to keep the glass near the bottom of the stem to avoid heating both the glass and the wine.
Aperitif glasses are made for dessert wines such as Ports and Sherry. Since ports and dessert wines are served in small quantities, the glasses are small in stature. The small but proportionate stems are perfect for sipping.
Add an extra layer of elegance to tall tables with table skirt finials. These can be made from just about anything, including ribbon, string, twine, or fabric. Here, natural-toned burlap enhances the organic aesthetic of the wine tasting.
One of the most important factors for successful wine tasting is creating a proper flow. By setting up wine pairing stations along the perimeter of your space, you'll designate the stations as an area for sampling and quick chats, freeing up the center for long-term blending. To ensure guests at each table don't crowd, keep at least three feet of space between each table.
Regarded for its light and subtly tropical flavor, Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent choice for white wine. Three great primers to enhance your layers of flavor include grapefruit, melon, and lime.
The flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon (made from what many sommeliers consider the most famous red wine grape) are enhanced when combined with dark chocolate, blackberries, and cinnamon.
When introducing Pinot Noir at a wine tasting, experts find apple, vanilla, and nutmeg to be the perfect primers.
Wine tastings generate a fair amount of waste, mainly through discarded wine bottles and corks. Designate a boat to collect used corks, a material that can be used for clever craft projects.
Add a wine-inspired vibe to your wine tasting with a chandelier or pendant light. These can be made from discarded wine bottles, a wine bottle cutter, and basic wood, as well as chain and pendant kits. Many manufacturers offer them in different shapes and sizes, both for wiring applications and for use with plugs.
