Hosting a wine tasting is an elegant, yet casual way to bring friends and family together for an unforgettable experience. The Pocono Mountains, with scenic views and charming local wineries, offer the perfect location for such an event, and a great excuse for a getaway! At Poconos Mountain Rentals, we have been managing large homes and helping guests make big memories in the Poconos for over 25 years. So we have a number of vacation rentals that are perfectly suited to host your next wine-centered adventure. Here’s how to host your own perfect wine tasting, right in the comfort of one of our stunning rental homes.
Set the Atmosphere
Create an inviting and relaxing environment by decorating with elements inspired by the natural beauty of the Poconos. Think rustic tablescapes, candlelight, and fresh flowers. Most of our Pocono Mountain Rentals have a large dining area or outdoor patio. Take advantage of the space to set up a beautiful tasting area that allows guests to mingle comfortably as they enjoy.
Provide Tasting Tips and Games
Make your wine tasting interactive by providing guests with tasting notes or scorecards. Encourage them to describe the flavors, aromas, and textures of each wine. Consider adding a fun element, such as a blind tasting or a game that involves guessing the wine region or varietal. These activities can spark conversation and add a playful twist to the event.
Progress Through the Wines Like a Pro
When choosing wines, consider offering a variety of types – reds, whites, and even a rose or sparkling wine – to cater to all taste preferences. It’s perfect to mix up the selection with some bold and complex options alongside lighter, easy-drinking varieties. In addition, the order in which you present the wines matters. Starting with lighter options and working your way toward bolder, richer flavors ensures your palate isn’t overwhelmed early on.
Begin with a sparkling wine or a crisp white, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. These lighter wines will cleanse and awaken the palate. Next, move on to medium-bodied wines like a Pinot Noir or Merlot. These offer more complexity without overwhelming the taste buds. Finish the tasting with the boldest options, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, which offer deeper, more robust flavors that linger on the palate. If you’re including dessert wines, like a sweet Riesling or Port, save those for the very end as their sweetness can overpower other wines.
Choose Your Wines with a Local Twist
To make your wine tasting truly special and memorable, consider showcasing the unique flavors of the Poconos by selecting some of our local wines. The region boasts several exceptional wineries such as:
Blue Ridge Estate Vineyard and Winery
One of the favorites of the region, and billed as “The Most Joyful Place on Earth”, they offer a wide variety of wines including Chardonnays, Rieslings, Pinots, Cabs, and more. You can find their wines in a variety of locations in Pennsylvania. Find the one nearest to you by clicking HERE.
Another regional icon, the Sorrenti Family has been producing award-winning wines for over 40 years. You can find them in many retail locations in Pennsylvania by clicking HERE.
A 200-acre farm that prides itself on sustainable farming practices and handcrafted wines. Their selection includes everything from robust reds to light, fruit whites, providing options for every palate.
With wine from a family run winery that specializes in both grape and fruit wine, these generations of expertise create flavors that are distinctly Poconos.
Pair Your Wines with Delicious Bites
Complement your wine selection with an array of appetizers that enhance the flavors of each wine. Think about cheese platters featuring local favorites, charcuterie boards with cured meats, and fresh fruit like apples and berries that pair beautifully with various wine styles. Don’t forget to include palate cleansers like crackers and water to keep the tasting fresh.
Stay in Style
A wine-tasting party is best enjoyed without the worry of getting home afterward. Our large rental homes in the Poconos are perfect for accommodating big groups, offering plenty of room for everyone to stay overnight. Why not turn your wine tasting into a weekend getaway? With spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and breathtaking views, our homes provide the ideal setting for both the tasting and the relaxation that follows. By hosting a wine tasting in one of our rentals, you’re not just offering your guests a great time – you’re giving them an experience to remember. Cheers to great wine, great company, and the perfect place to celebrate it all!
