- Appetisers and nibbles are a great way to accompany the wine.
- You don't want anything too spicy or overpowering to keep the palate fresh or in line with the wine you're serving.
Whether hosting a wine tasting at home or attending a relaxed evening with friends, choosing the right appetisers is essential. The aim is to complement the wine, not compete with it. Balanced flavours and bite-sized portions allow guests to appreciate each wine without distraction.
Classic Appetiser Ideas for Wine Tastings
Cheese & Accompaniments - A curated selection of cheeses is a timeless choice. Pair them with:
- Artisan crackers or biscuits
- Grapes and apples
- Chutneys and pickled onions
For themed evenings, consider selecting cheeses from a specific country or region. A fun twist is to ask each guest to bring a cheese that “best represents them,” a great conversation starter and icebreaker.
Tapas - Tapas-style dishes are perfect for variety and sharing. Classic options include:
- Patatas bravas
- Garlic prawns
- Spanish tortilla (see below)
Tapas recipe idea: Thinly slice one onion and two small potatoes, then fry until golden. Add four beaten eggs, herbs, and a handful of grated cheese. Cook into an omelette, flip, then slice into triangles and serve with cocktail sticks.
Mini Italian Plates - Offer mini portions of Italian favourites:
- Meatballs
- Pasta bites
- Thin crust pizza squares
- Bruschetta with toppings like tomato, garlic, mushrooms, or olive tapenade
Quick to prepare, full of flavour, and universally loved.
Bread & Dips - A mezze-style board with fresh bread and flavourful dips (e.g. hummus, baba ghanoush, tzatziki) is simple yet satisfying. The textures and flavours pair beautifully with most wines.
Asian-Inspired Bites
- Crispy spring rolls
- Chicken satay skewers
- Vegetable dumplings
These offer flavour without being too heavy or spicy.
Grilled Vegetables & Skewers - Chargrilled peppers, courgettes, aubergines, and cherry tomatoes make vibrant, healthy appetisers. Serve on skewers for easy sharing. Add halloumi for a salty, savoury upgrade.
Wine Pairing Tips for Appetisers
While personal preference plays a role, here’s a general guide to help you match food and wine effectively:
- White wine pairs beautifully with lighter bites such as sushi, salads, and grilled vegetables.
- Red wine works well with richer appetisers like cured meats, cheese, or meat-based tapas.
- Dessert wines can balance bold flavours, sweetness offsets salt or spice.
- Cheese, bread, and fresh fruit are universally wine-friendly.
Wine Suggestions
| Appetiser | Wine suggestion |
|---|---|
| Antipasto | Pinot Gris, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Blanc |
| Caviar | Sparkling wine |
| Cold meats | Riesling, Barbera, Vignoles, Seyval Blanc |
| Nuts or olives | Sparkling wine |
| Pasta | Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Riesling |
| Vegetables | Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Barbera, Dry Riesling |
| Quiche | Chardonnay, Riesling, Chenin Blanc, Viognier |
| Smoked fish | Pinot Blanc, Sparkling wine, Riesling, Gewürztraminer |
Top Hosting Tips
- Hors d’oeuvres: Offer a mix of options so everyone finds something they enjoy. Always check for any dietary requirements in advance.
- Cheese shapes: Use cookie cutters to create themed cheese slices—great for parties with a motif.
- Finger-friendly: Serve with cocktail sticks for easy, mess-free snacking.
- Bread is your friend: Breadsticks and rolls help cleanse the palate and prevent overindulgence.
- Cheese fondue: For a cosy touch, offer fondue with crusty bread, apple slices, or baby potatoes.
- Plan ahead: Whether you prepare the food yourself or ask guests to contribute, organise the menu a week or two in advance.
- Don’t forget non-alcoholic drinks: Always provide water and soft drinks so guests stay hydrated and included.
For more guidance on planning your own tasting evening, visit our full guide, Wine Tasting Party at Home Guide - How to Host a Perfect Wine Evening.
