New Year’s Party Ideas: Ultimate Wine Tasting Game!

Every year, my wife and I try to come up with a fun way to make our holiday and New Year’s party ideas to make our gatherings unforgettable.. One Christmas Eve at our aunt’s house, we decided to shake things up with a wine-tasting game—and let me tell you, it was a hit! From watching our cousins debate over “earthy undertones” to my wife secretly googling wine terms mid-game, it was the perfect mix of laughter, friendly competition, and holiday cheer. If you’re looking for NYE activity ideas or a way to bring your family and friends together this Christmas or New Year’s, this game is guaranteed to deliver all the fun with a side of great wine!

How the Game Works

1. Bring the Wine
   • Each guest or couple brings two bottles of wine:
     • One Cabernet Sauvignon
     • One Sauvignon Blanc
   • Families bring four bottles total—two for the tasting and two for the prize pool.

2. Keep It Anonymous
   • To ensure fair judging, wrap your wine bottles in aluminum foil or use wine bottle covers (find affordable options on Amazon).
   • Each bottle will receive a unique number or code for blind tasting.

3. Set Up the Tasting
   • Pour small samples of wine into disposable tasting glasses for each participant. Need glasses? Check out this link for easy and budget-friendly options.

4. Taste and Rate
   • Everyone receives a Wine Tasting Card to jot down their ratings.
   • Categories can include:
     • Aroma
     • Taste
     • Finish
     • Overall Favorite
   • Don’t forget to download your free printable Wine Tasting Cards here!

5. Declare a Winner
   • Once all wines have been rated, tally the scores to determine the top Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc.
   • The winners take home the extra bottles from the prize pool!

Why This Game is Perfect for the Holidays

• Inclusive Fun: This game is lighthearted and enjoyable, whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a casual drinker.
• Conversation Starter: Tasting and discussing the wines spark great conversations and laughter.
• Affordable: No price limits—bring any wine that fits your taste and budget!

Pro Tips for Hosting

• Provide crackers, bread, or light snacks to cleanse palates between tastings.
• Offer non-alcoholic options or grape juice for non-drinkers, so everyone can join the fun.
• Decorate the tasting table with festive lights and a holiday theme for added ambiance.

Party Food Ideas

Great party food ideas have a way of bringing people together and turning any gathering into a memorable celebration. Whether it’s a cozy family get-together or a lively New Year’s bash, the right mix of appetizers, snacks, and desserts can set the tone for a fun and festive atmosphere. The best dishes aren’t just delicious—they’re easy to share and guaranteed to spark conversation.

Appetizers

Embark on a flavorful journey with our collection of tantalizing starters! From savory bites to delectable small plates, discover a variety of recipes to elevate your appetizer game and impress your guests

Dips and Spreads

Discover a variety of delicious, homemade dips and spreads perfect for any occasion! From creamy hummus and smoky baba Ganoush to tangy salsa and rich vegan cheese spreads, our collection offers something for every palate. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a snack, or adding flavor to your meals, these recipes are quick, easy, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Explore healthy, plant-based options that are ideal for both casual snacking and impressive entertaining. Each recipe comes with tips, variations, and nutritional information to make your dip experience even better.

Soups & Stews

Dive into the comforting world of plant-based soups and stews, where hearty flavors meet wholesome ingredients. From creamy bisques to robust curries, our collection features vegan and vegetarian recipes that warm the soul and satisfy the taste buds. Perfect for every season, these dishes are simple to prepare, packed with nutrition, and brimming with love in every bowl.

Cocktails

Explore our curated collection of cocktail recipes, perfect for every occasion. From classic cocktails to modern mixology creations, elevate your bartending skills and delight your guests with our diverse selection of libations.

Desserts

Explore our collection of mouthwatering dessert recipes. From classic favorites to innovative sweets, our desserts are perfect for any occasion and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.