Spring is officially here—blossoms in the air, longer evenings, and the perfect excuse to pop open a bottle (or five). And if you haven’t been invited to a wine tasting yet this year, why not host your own? Whether it’s a laid-back Saturday gathering, a dinner party with friends, or a fancier affair with posh cheeses and candles, wine tasting is always a good idea. Even wineries do it differently—from standing tastings to multi-course dinners with anywhere from 6 to 12 wines paired throughout the meal. The possibilities are endless, and a little planning goes a long way.
Let’s walk through a few insider tricks to make sure your wine tasting is a hit—whether you’re a first-timer or secretly fancy yourself a sommelier in the making.
1. Airing the Wine – Yes, It Makes a Difference
Decanting isn’t just for show. Allowing wine to “breathe” helps open up the aromas and soften any sharp edges. Young reds like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah (Shiraz if you’re feeling Aussie) love a good 30–60 minutes of air time. Older wines? They’re more delicate—15–30 minutes will do. And if you’re pouring a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, just a few swirls in the glass will wake them up nicely.
2. Hydration Station – Water, Water, and... More Water
Wine tasting is not a sprint, it’s a marathon. Hydration keeps your senses sharp and your head clear. Always have pitchers of water on the table, and gently remind your guests to sip often—especially between wines.
3. Crackers Are Your Best Friends
Crackers, breadsticks, or even slices of baguette help cleanse the palate between sips. Avoid flavoured snacks (no rosemary focaccia, please!) as they can interfere with the subtle notes in wine. Keep it simple and let the wine shine.
4. Eat Smart Before – and After
Before a tasting, go light. Think: neutral flavours and not too spicy—maybe a salad with chicken or a mild cheese toastie. Avoid garlic, hot curries, or anything that’ll coat your tongue for hours. After the tasting, offer a cosy dish like risotto or a charcuterie spread so everyone can soak up the wine and chat through their favourites.
5. Pour Like a Pro
You don’t need to serve full glasses—save that for your Friday night Netflix binge. For a tasting, 60–90ml (about a third of a regular glass) is perfect. That way, everyone can enjoy multiple wines without feeling overwhelmed (or tipsy too soon).
6. Don’t Forget the Spittoons
Yes, spitting is allowed—and encouraged! Especially if you’re going through 6+ wines. Have a few discreet spittoons (even old mugs will do in a pinch) available so guests can taste everything without drinking every drop. It’s classy, not wasteful.
Fun fact: Your taste buds get tired. It’s called “palate fatigue”—and yes, it’s a real thing. That’s why pacing matters, and palate cleansers help you stay sharp.
At W1NE LOVE, we believe wine is about joy, connection, and a little adventure in a glass. So this spring, whether you’re clinking glasses at a vineyard or swirling Shiraz in your kitchen, make your tasting unforgettable—with just the right pour, the right nibbles, and the best company.
Cheers to good times and better wine!