Food and Drink Tips for Pony Party Guests – Wine Tasting Made Simple

Planning a pony party and want to add a wine tasting for the adults? It doesn't have to be complicated. Below are the basics you need to know so the tasting feels relaxed and enjoyable, while the kids have a blast with the ponies.

How many samples can you expect?

Most wine‑tasting events offer between 4 and 8 samples. The number depends on the venue, the host’s budget, and the type of tasting. If you book a local vineyard, they often serve 5–6 small pours. A private tasting can stretch to 8 or more, especially if you ask for a mixed‑variety session.

Ask the provider ahead of time: “How many glasses will each guest get?” Knowing the count helps you plan the food side. If you’re serving 6 samples, aim for a few bite‑size snacks per person so the palate stays fresh.

Master the 5 S's of wine tasting

The 5 S's – See, Swirl, Sniff, Sip, Savor – turn a simple sip into a mini‑lesson. First, look at the color. A clear, bright hue often means a younger wine, while a deeper shade can show age or oak influence.

Next, give the glass a gentle swirl. This releases aromas that you’ll catch in the next step: sniff. Take a quick sniff, then a deeper one. Try to pick out fruit, spice, or earth notes.

When you sip, let the wine coat your tongue. Think about the body – light, medium, or full – and whether it feels smooth or a bit sharp. Finally, swallow or spit, and notice the finish. Does the flavor linger? That’s the savor part.

Practicing these steps makes you more confident, and you’ll notice subtle differences between wines faster.

For a pony party, keep the tasting short – about 20‑30 minutes. That way the adults get a taste without missing the pony activities.

Pairing food is easy. Offer simple cheese cubes, crusty bread, and a few fruit slices. These items cleanse the palate without overwhelming the kids’ snack table.

Remember to provide water and non‑alcoholic drinks for everyone. A sparkling water station works well and looks festive.

When you’re ready to set up, lay out the glasses in a row, label each wine, and give a brief note about its style. This visual cue helps guests follow the tasting without confusion.

Finally, keep the vibe relaxed. A short toast, a quick story about the wine’s region, and then let the guests explore at their own pace. The ponies will be happy, the adults will enjoy their drinks, and you’ll have delivered a smooth, memorable event.

by Ainsley Rivers
17 Mar 2025
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How Many Samples Do You Get at a Wine Tasting?

Ever wonder how many samples you can expect at a wine tasting event? This article explores the usual offerings, diving into the factors that affect the number of samples and what you can learn from each sip. It also provides handy tips for making the most of your wine tasting adventure without getting overwhelmed. You'll discover what to look for and how to ask the right questions to enhance your experience.

by Ainsley Rivers
1 Jan 2025
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Mastering Wine Tasting: Understanding the Essential 5 S's

Wine tasting is an art that involves engaging all the senses to fully appreciate the nuances of various types of wine. The 5 S's—See, Swirl, Sniff, Sip, and Savor—are essential steps in the process. Each step allows for a deeper understanding and appreciation of wine's color, aroma, flavor, and finish. By following these steps, even a novice can develop a more discerning palate. This guide explores these practices to enhance anyone's wine tasting experience.