A Guide to Hosting the Perfect Wine Gathering
There’s something magical about October. The air gets a little crisper, the leaves start to turn golden, and suddenly everyone’s ready to come over. Whether everyone is gathered around the table or it’s just an impromptu glass of wine on the porch, this is a guide to hosting the perfect wine gathering.
The Right Glassware
Wine tastes better when it’s served in something beautiful. Whether you’re pouring red, white, or bubbles, make sure you have:
- Stemmed wine glasses for elegance and tradition. Any stemmed glass will do, but we like Riedel and Zwiesel.
- Be sure to match the varietal with the right glass! Check out this guide by Wine Folly to figure out how to serve any wine.
Tip: Don’t stress if your glasses don’t match perfectly. Eclectic is charming, just like your guest list.
Wine Tools
Wine without a wine opener is just… sad. So be sure to have:
- Corkscrew or Durand to open every bottle with ease! (Keep the Durand on hand for any finicky older bottles with weak corks.)
- Coravin: If you’re doing a tasting, a Coravin would be helpful to have on hand to keep wine fresh and ready for the next pouring.
- Wine Discs can be helpful to keep the wine enjoying mess-free.
- Decanters are always great for letting your wines breath.
Tip: Have cups (not clear!) available for guests who would like to taste and spit. It makes you look like a total wine pro!
A Wine Selection That Tells a Story
Wine is a beautiful way to connect with your nearest and dearest. For your gathering, try to curate a small but thoughtful lineup:
- White (think: a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a rich Chardonnay) Perhaps Kistler Chardonnay Cuvee Cathleen 2019!
- Red (a juicy Pinot Noir or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon) Try the Realm Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard 2022!
- Something sparkling to start or end the night with a pop! Bring out the Billecart Salmon Brut Blanc de Blancs Cuvee Louis 2006!
- Larger Formats for when the house is full, Maybe the Calon Segur 2016 1.5L!
Pro move: Place a card near each bottle with its name and a pairing suggestion. It invites conversation and helps guests choose their next pour.
Sharing Plates, Boards, and Bits to Graze
A gathering is practically incomplete without good food. Although a 5 course meal is always a fun adventure, don’t be afraid to go for easy bites like:
- Cheese and charcuterie boards
- Fresh bread, olive oil and balsamic vinegar
- A warm dish like baked brie or soup shooters!
Tip: Let guests contribute! A “bring a bottle or a dish” moment makes everyone feel part of the table.
A Little Something to Send Them Home With
It doesn’t have to be fancy. A small token goes a long way:
- A handwritten note
- A 375 mL bottle of wine
- A copy of the playlist
- Leftovers in cute containers
It says, “You’re always welcome.” And isn’t that what Come Over October is all about?
Final Sip: It’s Not About the Tools, It’s About the Togetherness
Sure, the right wine glass matters. But what makes a gathering amazing is the people, the stories, the clinking of glasses, and the joy that lingers long after the last pour. This October, invite them in. Share what you love. Pour generously and fill your cup.
Cheers,
The Come Over October Team 🍷
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