Host a Wine Tasting Party
What makes a good Spanish party? Maybe it’s the warmth and the laughter? Maybe it’s the flirtatious sharing of tapas, or the spirited conversation that happens when the wine is flowing and plates are circling the room—or guests are circling the table?
Forks and wine glasses in hand, Spanish partiers embrace a spirit of playful decadence. A good Spanish party invites you to revel in the good life and surrender to the senses. No wonder we look to Spain when we’re ready to celebrate!
Invite your friends and family to experience the warmth and camaraderie of a Spanish party. All you have to do is create some Spanish-style ambiance, open up a few bottles of VAZA Spanish wine and watch your friends swoon over delectable tapas—all from your own kitchen.
Whether you are planning a small gathering or a full-scale fiesta, these party essentials will guarantee that everyone in your peña is living life to the fullest, Spanish-style.
Step 1 - Gather your friends
Welcome your friends with enticing invitations. Who wouldn't be tempted by an evening of spirited conversation, exciting flavors and luscious wines? You will also want to determine how you will be supplying the wines. You do not need to do all the buying yourself. A good suggestion is to send an e-mail or invitation in advance that encourages guests to bring wine as well. Your invitation might also include any price sets that will help anyone on a budget. You will also want to include any type of food or cheese pairings that will be served so that guests can choose wines that are best served with the dishes. As the host, you will want to purchase more than your guests, for those “just in case” moments.
Step 2 - Set the scene
Bright Spanish-style ambiance will enliven the mood and inspire the "tapas spirit" in any guest. Don't forget to stock up on some basic supplies:
- Plain bread or crackers: Something light that will help “clean the palate” and pairs with all types of wines.
- Wine glasses: At least one per guests
- Pitcher of water: For cleaning out the glasses between each tasting.
- Dump bucket: For discarding wine before next pouring or spitting out
- Tasting cards & pens/pencils: For describing and recording each wine tasted
- Paper bags: To cover the labels for blind tastings
If possible, serve the wines on a large table with good lighting. A cheap white tablecloth is recommended as solid background to assess the color of the wines.
Step 3 - Choose your tapas
Be spontaneous or take your time - our favorite recipes range from the very simple to more complex. Either way you will create a colorful meal that’s bound to impress. Select from one of our tapas menus and print out the recipe before you head to the store. Whether you’re planning an impromptu celebration or dreaming up an elaborate feast, we’ll help you navigate the options and the store aisles.
Step 4 - Stock up on VAZA
Make sure you have enough wine to keep the conversation lively and the tapas plates flying. Final touches… At a tapas party food is eaten communally, so make sure your guests are armed with forks and ready to share. And, of course, don’t forget the wine glasses!
Step 5 - The Tasting
Tasting wine is meant to be enjoyable and fun. You may want to suply simple tasting cards to your guests for them to write down observations and thoughts. The process of tasting wine is about noting unique color, smells and flavors. It is also about expressing your observations while taking into consideration other guest's thoughts.
You may also want to send an email or note after the party that includes a list of the wines served and where they were purchased so that guests can buy a bottle of their own.