There’s nothing quite like enjoying a nice glass of wine while sitting by the fire. As the ground begins to thaw and we start to move closer to spring, the temperatures outside can make for a very enjoyable night. Why not grab a few friends and host an intimate wine tasting by the fire while the nights are still quiet.
Whether you have an outdoor firepit or a cozy fireplace inside, hosting a fireside wine tasting is a great way to bring people together. You can make the wine tasting as extravagant or as simple as you want. Wine and food pairings are always a fun idea, but if that sounds like more than you want, a simple wine tasting with friends is also a great experience.
Hosting a Fireside Wine Tasting
The first thing you want to do after deciding on hosting a fireside wine tasting is to decide how you’re going to do it.
There are a number of ways to go about hosting a wine tasting. You can invite friends over for a simple tasting of some of your favorite wines, you can find random wines that go great with an nice, crisp, cool night, you can offer up wines that pair nicely with simple foods like cheese, or you can just throw a potluck and serve a few nice bottles of wine that everyone can try at their leisure.
The way you handle the wine tasting is completely up to you, but no matter what type of wine tasting party you’re hosting, we put together a few tips for getting the most of out the wine.
Choosing the Right Wine and the Right Amount
Once you’ve decided what sort of wine tasting “party” you’re having, that will then help you determine what wines you should offer.
The easiest way to choose wine for a tasting is to just choose some of your favorites. We recommend having 5-8 different wines for people to taste, and then the number of bottles of each would be determined by how many people are attending the party.
Each traditional bottle of wine contains about 5 glasses, using a standard 5 oz pour. If you plan on only giving everyone a smaller taste, then you can make adjustments accordingly. But if people really like certain wines, they may prefer to have an extra/larger pour of those and pass on others.
If you want to try a different selection of wine, maybe wine that you’ve never tried, we have some suggestions for wines that go great during the cooler months, and would be perfect for around the fireplace.
Best Cool Weather Wines to Drink Around the Fireplace
When selecting wines for your fireside tasting, opt for varieties that complement the cozy ambiance and cooler temperatures. Look for wines with a balance of acidity and body, as well as those with warm, inviting flavors.
1. Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a versatile choice that can range from crisp and elegant to rich and buttery. For a fireside tasting, consider a Chardonnay with a medium body and notes of apple, pear, and vanilla. This wine pairs well with a variety of foods, making it a great option for serving alongside appetizers or a light meal.
2. Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a classic choice for cooler weather, known for its silky texture and flavors of cherry, raspberry, and earthy notes. Look for a Pinot Noir with a medium body and smooth finish. This wine pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or a charcuterie board.
3. Cabernet Sauvignon
For those who prefer a bolder wine, Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent choice. Look for a Cabernet with rich flavors of blackberry, plum, and hints of spice. This wine pairs well with hearty dishes such as steak, burgers, or roasted lamb, making it a great option for a fireside dinner.
4. Merlot
Merlot is a smooth and approachable wine with flavors of plum, cherry, and a touch of chocolate. Look for a Merlot with a velvety texture and soft tannins. This wine pairs well with a variety of foods, making it a versatile option for your fireside tasting.
5. Riesling
For those who prefer white wines, Riesling is an excellent choice for a fireside tasting. Look for a Riesling with flavors of peach, apricot, and a hint of sweetness. This wine pairs well with spicy foods, making it a great option for pairing with chili or curry dishes.
Food and Wine Pairings
If you’re looking to serve wines that pair well with certain foods that might be served at your party, then you’ll have to plan for that as well.
We have some excellent guides on wine and food pairings to help you select the best wine no matter what sort of dishes you are serving.
What Food Pairs Best With Cabernet Sauvignon?
What Foods Pair Best With Chardonnay Wine?
What Cheese Pairs Best With Cabernet Sauvignon?
Fireside Wine Tasting
Inside or outside, fire pit or fireplace, there’s nothing quite like hosting a wine tasting in front of a warm, cozy, fire. Whether you’re serving up some of your favorite wines, or looking to serve up something new, using our guide above will help you plan the perfect fireside wine tasting.
Remember, wine tasting is very subjective, so not everyone is going to like every type of wine that you present, but that’s the whole point of a tasting. Present your guests with options and let them decide which wines they like the best. You can even have a little survey at the end to see which was the overall favorite amongst your guests.
Wine tasting parties are a great way to gather up the people you care about and share some good food and drinks as well as a few laughs. Remember, the most important thing about hosting a wine tasting party is the people.