It’s less than one week ‘til the official start of summer. Aren’t your fondest childhood memories from summer? Think friends, parties, swimming, barbecues and toes in the sand. Capture the same carefree summer feelings with our hot summer Wine Tasting themes and cocktails to match!

 

1.  Beach Staycation

No beach? No problem. Create a beachy scene at your Wine Tasting. Go for cabana ambiance (inside or out) with sunny colors, palm trees, shells, driftwood, a beach ball or two, surfboards, you name it! Don’t forget the paper parasols. Have everyone bring sunglasses and their fave beachgoing snacks.

Inspiration: Beach Party Decorations 

Get in the mood with this cool, refreshing treat:

 

Wine Popsicles

 

2.  Tiki Time

The craze began in the 1930s with a Hollywood restaurant. Tiki culture is Polynesian inspired food and décor, fruity drinks, even music and fashion. A little time online will lead you to a trove of entertaining ideas to create an exotic escape for your next Wine Tasting.

Inspiration: Tiki Bar History for Beginners

Have guests bring different fruits (make it easy by assigning this in advance) and have them build their own fruit-filled wine cocktail!

 

Rainbow Sangria

 

3.  Pool Party

If you’re lucky enough to have a pool (or have friends who do) then start planning. Set up a central Wine Tasting station so guests can sip, dip, lounge and snack. Consider a sunscreen station, loads of colorful cushions, towels and floats. Casual!

What better cocktail for a sunny day? 

 

red sangria

 

4.  TGIF-A (Thank Goodness it’s for – Adults!)

This Wine Tasting is best on a Friday, since it’s meant as a welcome break for parents whose kids are out of school for the summer. Thrill your guests with a civilized and chill gathering where they can relax, chat and sample our delicious wines.

While the kids are away, try this deliciously pink take on a margarita:

 

Rose Wine Cocktail

 

5.  Life’s a Picnic

Picnic tables not required, yet red checked decor and classic summer snacks always put everyone in the mood to kick off their shoes and have a great time (outdoors or in). Have each guest bring their favorite picnic bites for pairing with the Tasting wines.

A picnic, indoors or out, deserves a cheery, cherry cocktail:

 

cherry wine cocktail

 

6.  Cheers to Red, White & Blue

It doesn’t need to be July 4th to celebrate with red white and blue. All summer long is a grand time to display our patriotic colors. When your guests arrive at your r/w/b party, they won’t be able to stop smiling. Serve red, white and blue fruits to pair with your wines and have everyone dress in their patriotic best. Blue cheese, white chocolate and strawberries are the perfect additions.

Inspiration: Easy Red White and Blue Decorating Ideas

Enjoy this light, fun, red, white & blue cocktail with your guests or make it ahead of time to serve after the Tasting:

 

red white and blue wine cocktail