How to Pick Wines for Your Game
Staring at the wall of wine in the grocery store? Don't panic. You don't need to be a sommelier to build a great flight. Here are three foolproof strategies.
First: The Math
How much wine do you actually need?
The number one mistake hosts make is running out of wine—or buying way too much. Here is the golden rule for a tasting game:
The "Tasting Pour" Rule
1 Bottle serves 10-12 tasting pours (2 oz each).
- ✓For 4-6 people: Buy 3-4 bottles.
- ✓For 8-10 people: Buy 5-6 bottles.
- ✓Always have water and crackers on the table.
3 Foolproof Buying Strategies
Pick one of these themes and you're set.
The Potluck (Easiest)
The ultimate low-stress move. Ask every guest (or couple) to bring one bottle.
The Rules:
- •Set a price range (e.g., "$15-$25")
- •Pick a theme (e.g., "Bring a funky Red")
- •Host provides the bags/foil
- •Host secretly bags them upon arrival
Why it works: Everyone feels invested because they brought a contender. Plus, you save money.
High vs. Low
Can your friends really taste the difference between a $10 bottle and a $50 bottle?
The Rules:
- •Buy 3 bottles of the same varietal (e.g., Cabernet)
- •One Cheap (<$12)
- •One Mid-range ($25)
- •One Expensive ($50+)
- •See who rates the cheap one highest
Why it works: It levels the playing field. Often, the "expert" gets fooled by the budget bottle.
Regional Rivals
Same grape, different soil. The classic educational setup.
The Rules:
- •Pick one grape (e.g., Pinot Noir)
- •Buy one from France (Old World)
- •Buy one from California (New World)
- •Buy one from Oregon/NZ (The Middle Ground)
Why it works: You learn what "terroir" actually tastes like. Old World is usually earthier; New World is fruitier.
Pro Tip: The "Bag & Tag"
Even if you buy all the wines yourself, blind tasting is key. Wrap bottles in foil, brown paper bags, or even thick socks. Number them 1, 2, 3... and enter them into Vine Savant.
Got your bottles?
Now add them to your game lobby. It takes about 2 minutes.