Planning the Party

• There are two options for setting up a wine-tasting shower. One would be to ask each guest to bring two bottles of their favorite wine, along with their favorite recipe or suggested food pairing for that wine. One bottle, and the recipe, will be a gift for the happy couple, and the second bottle will be used for tasting at the party.
  
  Another option is for the host to choose the wine ahead of time and set up a more traditional tasting. There's no need to be a wine expert. The staff at most liquor stores can assist you in choosing good wines in any price range, especially at stores that specialize in wine. Some large stores may have a sommelier to assist customers, or you can go all out and hire a sommelier for the party itself.
  
  In keeping with the wine theme, suggest that gifts be themed around wine, cocktails or related kitchen items. (Remember, however, that it's improper to demand specific items as gifts.) This is a great opportunity to give stemware and bar or kitchen gadgets.
  
  

Choosing the Wine

• Some hosts may hesitate to plan a wine-themed shower because they think, "How do I pick wine for a wine-tasting?" There is no wrong wine for tasting. Experiment and choose all new wines. If the goal is to make comparisons, perhaps choose one varietal, either red or white, from several different wine regions: California, Australia, France or Italy. Or choose several different varietals, either all reds (cabernet, merlot, pinot noir) or all white (chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, riesling). It's even fine to pick wines simply because they have neat labels. One bottle will serve eight to 10 guests when tasting, since only about an ounce is needed for each taste.
  
  

Picking the food

• There's no need for fuss when it comes to preparing food for a wine-tasting bridal shower. Plan on a variety of cheeses and fruits, along with crackers and artisanal breads. Pair light cheeses, fruits and crackers with white wines. For reds, choose heartier breads like pumpernickel or rye, and add spicy cold cuts like salami or sausages and a selection of olives.
  
  Make sure that you have water and soft drinks or other non-alcoholic drinks available. Not only may there be guests who prefer not to drink, but the wine tasters will need to cleanse their palates between wines. Serve white wines before reds, and be sure to serve the boldest reds last.