There is nothing more elegant than getting together with close group of friends and enjoying a nice bottle of wine or two. Why not spice things up a bit this summer with a wine-themed party? Here are five different ways to enjoy good wine and great company.

1. Traditional Blind Wine Tasting
Invite a small group of friends to attend (maximum ten). Start with a theme, such as a region, country or year, then wrap up six bottles in plain brown paper bags. Each bag should be marked with a letter. On a separate sheet, have the name of each wine listed from 1 to 6. Make sure each guest has a piece of paper and a pen, and you’re set to go. For a proper tasting atmosphere, keep the room fragrance free and have food afterwards. Have each guest try each wine and try to match the letter with the number. One rule: no speaking during the tasting. The guest with the most correct answers gets to take home a prize. Remember, when pouring for a tasting event, make sure the glass is only one-third full. Also, whites should be tasted before reds.

2. Wine and Cheese
Here’s an opportunity to share a range of wine and delightful cheeses. Set a budget before the party, and ask each guest to bring a bottle of wine from a specific region or country along with a cheese from the same region. You can even make it a blind tasting for the cheeses and the wines.

3. International Flavor Pot-Luck
In a similar vein to the previous suggestion, this time have each guest bring a wine and a corresponding dish from a different country. Perhaps an elegant pasta dish and a rich Italian red, or a barbecued shrimp appetizer and a crisp Australian white. Alternatively, you can have a country themed night where you tie in the wine, food and perhaps an international film to enjoy together.

4. Games Night
Having a group of friends over for a games night is always a great way to relax. Why not add a wine spin to it with a wine themed game? From Wineopoly® to Wine Smarts®, there are many games out there to choose from. Alternatively, print out a couple of wine quizzes and reward the winners with their own bottle. Another idea is to have each guest bring their favorite wine for a blind tasting. Discover how well you know your friends as you try to match the wine with the person.

5. Other Ideas
Why does wine have to be about dinner? Have a wine party with a range of desserts and dessert wines to enjoy along with them. Conversely, you can have a champagne party, or a Bordeaux, Cabernet or Sauvignon Blanc themed party. Or forget the wine and throw a beer tasting party for a twist!

There are so many options when it comes to throwing a wine party, and there are also plenty of supplies to be found. Whether wine is the focus or playing a supporting role, make sure there is plenty of food for your guests to enjoy as well. Saluté.