wine tasting - how?

NMR

We're going to Wine Country for my 30th (not until May) and some people we're going with will be visiting next weekend.  I'd like to do a little wine tasting party with little apps that go with the wine. 

Any suggestiong for wines and good pairings?

 Thanks!!!

Wingit

I've done wine tasting parties in a couple different ways.  A lot depends on how many people you'll have.
Sometimes you can pick a varietal and have everyone bring a bottle from from different regions.
If you have a small group you could do wine pairings for each course.

L_Woods

I know this is late, but maybe someone else will want the idea. You could select a place - California, Argentina, France, Washington, etc. If everyone is bringing, have each person bring their favorite varietal from that region. If you're supplying, pick several varietals - start with a dry white, then a rose, then a medium bodied red, then a full bodied red, and end with a dessert wine. For each wine, have a pairing. It can be something as easy a cheese that compliments the flavors, or something more complex. www.foodandwine.com has some good pairing suggestions for various wines. Each wine, even in the same varietal, is a bit different so if you're able to consult the winery, that might help (CA wines would be good for that because most have websites in English)

NMR

Thanks to both of you for the suggestion.  I think I'll do California wines, since that's where we'll be going.  Let the research begin.

 

Thanks ladies!

lsgarver

If you have people who are new to wine, it's a good idea to pick several wines that have descriptions by professionals.  Show your guests the descriptions and let them see if they can pick up the flavors and nuances described.

If they have a little more tasting under their belts, put the bottles in numbered bags (there are kits for this, if you want to be matchy but plain old cloth or paper bags work) and have people taste and describe the wine without looking at any information on the label.

Cheese, fruit, bread and chocolate can make up the whole menu.