WINE GUIDES · WOUTER PARENT
How to host a wine tasting at home
A good home tasting gives everyone something to compare and plenty of room to talk. Start with a simple theme and a manageable number of bottles. Six wines make a useful starting point; your guests do not need to recognise grape varieties before they arrive.
Choose one question for the evening
Compare the same grape from different regions, explore one country, or taste contrasting styles. Decide whether to reveal the labels or pour blind. Blind tasting works best when the aim is to discuss what is in the glass, rather than catch anyone out.
Set the table
Provide clean glasses, water, somewhere to spit and a way to take notes. Serve small tasting pours and keep enough wine aside to revisit favourites. Start with lighter, fresher wines before fuller, more tannic styles; leave distinctly sweet wines until later.
Make room for different opinions
Give everyone a moment to smell and taste before discussing each wine. Ask what they notice and whether they like it. A shared score can be fun, but people do not have to agree. Note the bottle details so you can find a favourite again.
Spitting is allowed. Aim for the spittoon.
I hate seeing lovely wine go to waste. Even so, if you will be driving, I advise you to spit. Spitting does not guarantee that you have taken in no alcohol, so arrange a sober driver or another way home if you plan to drink. You can always ask whether some of your favourite wine can come home with you in a properly sealed bottle.
Prefer someone else to host?
Wouter can guide a private tasting at your home or an agreed venue around Zoetermeer. Share your preferred date, location, group size and any ideas for a theme. You will receive a proposal with the price and what is included.
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