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The Stress-Free Host Checklist

Hosting doesn't have to be hard. Follow this timeline and you'll look like a pro (even if you're making it up as you go).

1 Week Out

  • Invite friends (send them the "How to Play" link)
  • Pick a theme (Potluck, Region, or Price Challenge)
  • Check your glassware stash (you need 1 glass per person)
  • Create your game lobby in Vine Savant

2 Days Before

  • Buy the wines (if not doing potluck)
  • Get brown paper bags, foil, or specific wine sleeves
  • Buy snacks (crackers, cheese, water)
  • Charge your phone/tablet

Game Day: 1 Hour Before

  • Chill white/sparkling wines (put them in fridge)
  • Open red wines to let them "breathe"
  • Set out water and spit cups (optional but pro)
  • Bag and Tag the bottles (Write big numbers 1, 2, 3...)

Game Time

  • Share the 5-letter game code with guests
  • Pour Wine #1
  • Press "Start Game"
  • Have fun!

The Setup

What your table should look like.

Wine hosting essentials illustration

The "Kit"

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Glassware

One per person is fine. Rinse with water between pours if you want to be fancy.

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Palate Cleansers

Plain crackers or baguette. Cheese is great, but save the strong stuff for after the tasting if you want accurate scores.

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The Tech

Host needs one device to run the game. Guests play on their own phones.

Set it up in seconds

You can create your game lobby days in advance. Name your game, set the location, and add your wines. When guests arrive, just open the lobby and let them join.

Host lobby screen in Vine Savant

Ready to Host?

You have the plan. You have the list. Now get the game.