Tasting
It is important to have a bowl of water available for people to rinse out their wine glasses between tasting. It is equally important to put out non salted crackers or wafers to cleanse your guests’ pallet. These suggestions are offered so your guest will have an accurate measure of all the flavors in each particular wine.
Wine Glasses
The type of glasses used is an important part of the tasting. We would recommend that you use standard red wine glasses or standard white wine depending on the type of wine you are featuring.
Table Presentation
The way the wine is presented on the table will add to the overall atmosphere of your party. We strongly suggest that you add some flare to the wine table by adding a table cloth, flowers, grapes, grape leaves, or even pictures of wineries or vineyards. Hors d’oeuvres also makes a nice addition to the table as well as to the party.
Attire
Every group dynamic is different. A dress code is not necessary, but simply a matter of personal preference. If you’re looking to have a formal event, make sure to include that information on the invitations. Your invitation can include simple instructions such as formal, semi-formal, casual or whatever you have in mind. Remember, the goal is to just have a good time with your friends.
Prizes:
The Blindwine competition is designed to create a fun and competitive atmosphere with friends and family. In addition to the first-place medal that is included for the person that brought the winning wine, you might also want to raise the stakes with prizes and awards in different categories, such as least-liked or runner up. Remember, keeping it fun and festive is the key. You can purchase BlindWine Merchandise and other products in the BlindWine.com store.
Music
Music is a great complement to your BlindWine party. Both classical music and jazz music will set a nice mood for any wine party. You can create a mix CD to play during the party, find a nice jazz station, or even consider hiring a local musician to play live during the party. The choice of music is yours. Choose your music to help set the tone of the party you want.
Location
A BlindWine party can be hosted in a variety of locations: your home, a restaurant, your office, an outdoor garden or deck, even a hotel room. Choose your location to fit the atmosphere and mood you are trying to create. Keep in mind, your BlindWine party may spell over into an after party, so make sure your party location will not restrict the fun.
Post Wine Party
The BlindWine party might continue after the winner is declared, so make sure to have extra wine on hand. You might also think about food that you can serve after the party. At this point in the evening the choice is yours. The after party can take on any form.
Types of Wine
The type of wine you choose for your BlindWine party is up to you. Just remember to specify the grape (Cabernet, Merlot, etc.), region, the year range & the price range, to ensure that your guests are comparing apples to apples, or in this case, grapes to grapes.
Thank You
For your convenience, we have included thank you cards to send to your guests after the party. This gives you the opportunity to communicate your gratitude and appreciation for attending your party. You also have the opportunity to remind your friends which wine they liked best, for help with their future wine purchases. See BlindWine National results for some of the BlindWine winning wines.
Questions & Answers
Q) What do I need to do to get ready for my BlindWine party?
A) Open the game a week or so before the party and read the instructions on the back side of the final score card. It will describe each simple step to ensure you have a fantastic party.
Q) I am having a party for 11 couples. Will the BlindWine game work?
A) Yes. You can have two BlindWine parties going on at the same time. Have 5 of the couples bring one type, year, price and region and have the other 6 couples bring a different type, year, price and region. At the end of the party you will have two winners and twice as much fun.
Q) How much wine should people pour in their glass in order to taste it properly?
A) A 1-2oz pour should be sufficient quantity to determine the score. Some may have to go back to a wine they already tasted just to confirm it is their favorite wine. The best way to regulate the amount of wine poured is either pours it yourself or use a 1-2oz measured wine pourer.