Wine Tasting Themes
A great tasting needs a narrative. Comparing random bottles is fun, but comparing bottles with a connection helps everyone learn.
Why You Need a Theme
Themes level the playing field. They give your guests a framework to evaluate what they are drinking. It turns "I like this" into "I like this because it's fruiter than the other one."
Beginner Friendly Themes
Old World vs. New World
The classic showdown. Pick a grape (like Chardonnay or Pinot Noir) and buy one bottle from Europe (France/Italy) and one from the Americas (USA/Argentina).
- Goal: Can you taste the difference between the earthy, mineral-driven European style and the fruity, bold American style?
The Price Challenge
Buy a $12 bottle and a $40 bottle of the same varietal. Cover the labels.
- Goal: See if money really buys happiness. Often, the group is split 50/50!
The "Big 6" Tour
Taste the 6 most famous grapes: Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Goal: Learn the fundamental flavor profiles of the world's most popular wines.
Intermediate Themes
Regional Battle
Napa Valley vs. Sonoma County (Cabernet). Or Tuscany vs. Piedmont (Italian Reds).
Horizontal Tasting
Pick one specific region (e.g., Rioja Crianza) and one specific year (e.g., 2018). Buy bottles from 4 different producers.
- Goal: See how different winemakers interpret the same grapes and weather.
Fun & Casual Themes
Pizza Night Wines
Blind taste 3 Italian reds (Chianti, Barbera, Nero d'Avola) with ordering pizza.
The "Unpronounceable" Party
Everyone brings a bottle with a grape or region they can't pronounce (Gewürztraminer, Agiorgitiko, Txakoli).
Picked a theme?
Create your game in Vine Savant. You can customize the wine list to match your theme perfectly.