What to Bring to a Wine Tasting Party

By Jane Hotspur , last updated November 26, 2011

If you are going to a wine tasting party this holiday season, then you will love our advice on what you should bring to the affair! Most adults love wine tasting. It helps them to learn more about the wine making process as well as the types of wines that they prefer. These three things will help you get the most out of the next wine tasting party you attend!

A Gift for the Host

Make sure your gift is thoughtful and shows your appreciation. These parties are often quite expensive to host, since they normally involve the purchase of several expensive bottles of wine, as well as the services of a sommelier who helps to instruct the guests about the wine they are trying.

In selecting your gift, don't overlook the value of bringing cheese and crackers to a wine tasting party. These foods are always a hit amongst hungry guests! You should let your host know that you plan on gifting these items prior to the party. The host will be pleased about having one less thing in need of planning! The cheeses that go over the best at wine tasting parties include soft cheeses like Brie and goat cheese and hard cheeses like cheddar and sardo. These cheeses have sharp tastes, making them the perfect option to help guests clear their pallets in preparation for the next tasting.

Alternatively, you can show your appreciation for the host by gifting a very nice bottle of wine that they can enjoy later. After all, it is clear that the host of the party appreciates a glass or two of fine wine. Wine glasses and wine glass charms also make for excellent gifts, since they complement the host's interests.

A Journal and a Pen

In addition to bringing a gift for the host, it is important that you bring a journal and a pen to the party. Since memory fades over time (and a few tastings), this will help you to keep track of the wines that you liked and those that you didn't. You will be thankful you took notes during the tasting the next time you purchase wine!

A Designated Driver

Depending on how much wine you consume at the party, it might not be safe for you to drive home afterward. Before going to a wine tasting party, you should have a clear plan on how you plan on getting home. Taking public transportation to and from the party could be an easy fix. If this is not a convenient method of transportation, you could ask another guest to volunteer themselves as the designated driver. They will need to limit the amount of wine they consume at each tasting. If no one volunteers, then suggest carpooling together and splitting the cost of a taxi or limousine ride to your respective homes. This could even be a useful gift for the host and everyone else!

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