Consider this:
Start your party off with bubbles!
Something as simple as inexpensive Cava or Prosecco can set the stage. You can also pour a California sparkler or slide all the way up to the top of the market with a vintage Champagne if you prefer and your wallet can handle it, but the point is that bubbles are fun! Sparkling wine is refreshing and it puts people in a celebratory mood. Use the first half hour to an hour of your party to meet and greet your guests as they arrive and toast a fun evening ahead. Put out some light snacks (sparkling wine pairs great with a broad spectrum of foods) and then have a couple of extra bottles on hand for those that want to stick with it throughout the party as others opt to put down this glass in exchange for the next offering.
Rosé is the way!
In recent years Rosé has become a "go to" summer wine. They are very in vogue and more and more people are jumping on board with this fast growing trend. Use it as an addition to you wine choices for your guests and offer a red, a white and a rosé. Our guess is that if your party like many in our area, you will see great deal of interest in the wine with the ethereal pink hue.
Here is an idea... A Rosé party! Pick up a dozen or more rosés from different producers and areas around the globe, throw in a sparkler or two and mix it up. No two bottles are the same, I try this one and you try that one, everyone just enjoys tasting something new with each glass that they enjoy. Pour small amounts in each glass and keep things exciting by offering different types of foods from cheeses and salads to seafood and selections from the grill. Have your caterer make a giant Paella as the centerpiece if you like and really take it to the next level. The point is that Rosé is both chic and simple. They evoke a sense of elegance and are a wonderful dinner wine but also the perfect accompaniment to a simple picnic.
This is a great addition or centerpiece to your summer party and just like the previous suggestions adds a sense of fun. For those that have never heard of this wine, it is "The" wine of Spain's San Sebastian area and it is served in virtually every Tapas bar across the region. Low in alcohol with bright acidity and a perfect pairing with so many foods, this one will get everyone's attention! Why? Just look at how it is served (see picture). The traditional pouring method is to hold the wine glass down low and pour it from way up high to force air into the wine and put a mousse on top which wakes the wine up and keeps everyone ooohing and ahhing while they watch. You will need a designated "pourer" for this one to keep the spillage to a minimum but once you get the hang of it (very easy) the party will quickly move to the realm of memorable.
Signature cocktail to seal the deal!
With so many mixologists out there mixing things up in our local bars and restaurants, there are ideas everywhere. Try adding a "Blueberry smash" or maybe a "Cucumber Lemonade" to the drinks menu. These eye-popping drinks are leaving the Kir Royale of yesteryear in the rearview mirror. Go to your local Farmer's Market and see what is in season then Google recipes on your phone while you consider what local ingredients to will make your party stand out from the rest. Need some other cool ideas? Every Saturday for the rest of the summer we will be adding a signature cocktail tasting to our weekend from 4-7pm at the store. Let us help you to find the next great thing.
It is summer 2015 people, let's have some fun!
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