Nothing compares to the bliss of relishing a delicious picnic amidst a stunning vineyard landscape. After all, not only can you savor the mouth-watering barbecue and homemade snacks, but also the sublime tastings of hand-of-the-vine grapes. Planning for a vineyard picnic guarantees an idyllic picnic destination and a picturesque backdrop to cherish. With that, let’s take a tour through the intricacies of planning the perfect vineyard picnic experience.
1. Rekindle Romance at a Vineyard Picnic
Reignite the flame of romance with a special and intimate picnic at a vineyard. Enjoy a picturesque backdrop of rolling hills and valleys, dotted with rows of lush vines and secluded groves. Gaze into the horizon, as the sun sets lazily behind the mountains.
Choose your picnic spot wisely – a natural sitting area with an amazing view, away from the hustle and bustle of the visitors. You can bring your own backyard picnic blanket or rent one from the vineyard.
Put together a romantic picnic basket filled with some luxuries from the local area. Here are some items that you could include:
- Ripe local cheese, with a variety of flavours and textures
- Assorted olives, in different depths of darkness
- fresh crusty bread, baked in historic fireplaces
- fragrant patés, from local farms
- antipasti, filled with a variety of vegetables and meats
- A bottle of local wine, which will provide a unique vintage and flavour
Set the mood with some pleasant background music, or perhaps even a romantic love song. Take in the wonderful smell of the grapes, and share some sweet and intimate moments with your partner.
2. Tips for Preparing a Memorable Outdoor Meal
Keep it Fresh & Exciting
Cooking outdoors is a great way to switch up your regular routine. Experiment with new recipe ideas that you wouldn’t normally try, such as an exotic spice rub, unique vegetable side dish or a citrus-marinated steak. Taking a few risks in the preparation will make the meal even more memorable for your guests, as well as yourself.
Choose Your Menu Items Wisely
When cooking for large groups and in an outdoor setting, it is essential to keep the menu items simple. Choose recipes that are substantial but that don’t require a lot of work. Grilled vegetables and meats, mixed greens salad, and a hearty pasta dish are all easy to prepare and tasty enough to keep everyone satisfied. If you are pressed for time, consider some no-cook sides such as a fresh fruit platter, gourmet cheese and kitchen-made jam.
Garnish to Your Heart’s Content
The secret to a scrumptious-looking outdoor meal lies in the garnish you choose. Fresh veggies, herbs, and fruits add an extra layer of flavour and texture.
- Chop up fresh tomatoes or bell peppers with a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Mince herbs such as parsley, basil, cilantro, etc. and sprinkle generously over the top.
- Grate and sprinkle some cheese such as parmesan or cheddar over your dish.
- Wrap up a few wedges of lemon, lime, or even orange with some fresh herbs and tie with twine to give an elegant finishing touch.
Garnish your meal with thought and creativity and your guests will be raving about it for weeks.
3. Creating a Scenic Setting for a Winery Lunch
When planning a winery lunch, creating a scenic setting should not be overlooked. Not only will great ambience help guests enjoy the event, but it can also serve to boost the wine’s flavor and add to the overall experience.
- Choose a setting that is compatible with the winery’s style. Some venues may have picturesque surroundings with greenery, whereas others may have countryside views or rolling hills.
- Consider the time of day when selecting a location. Lunch around sunset can provide a romantic backdrop, while an early morning or mid-day gathering can be perfect for hearing birds singing or the river flowing nearby.
Think about the weather. A rainy day may still add to the atmosphere, but you’ll need to factor in any wind or temperature changes into the equation. If colder weather is expected, a sheltered spot or fire pit is advised. In summer, an outdoor area with umbrellas or shade is ideal.
Decorate the space. Draperies, canopies, and other decorative pieces can transform a neutral space into an inviting one. Uplighting can be used to create drama, while uplifting music will always be a hit. Choosing to hang flowers, lights, plants, and artwork around the space are also effective ways to create visual interest. No matter the size of the winery lunch, it can be transformed into an unforgettable experience with a few simple touches.
4. Celebrate the Charm of Wine Country With a Picnic
Napa and Sonoma are renowned for their wineries, and a great way to experience the beauty of wine country is to plan a picnic. Pack a light lunch from a deli or make your own sandwiches, cut up a few fresh vegetables, and grab a couple of bottles of wine. It’s an ideal way to spend a sunny day.
What will you need? To get ready for a perfect outing, you’ll need the following items:
- Picnic basket
- Cloth napkin, tablecloth and utensils
- Tableware like plates, cups, and glasses
- Wine corkscrew
- Snacks, sandwiches, or a meal
- Wine
You can’t picnic without wine, and the options are plentiful. Visit a tasting room or winery to buy a few bottles of your favorite wines. It might also be fun to try something new. After all, there’s no better way to experience a new flavor than in the bliss of wine country.
Find the perfect spot to set up your picnic too. It could be a grassy patch or a picnic table. Make sure you have a good view of the vineyards and the rolling hills all around you. Then, pop open your bottles of wine and toast to a memorable day.
5. Finding the Perfect Spot to Enjoy Wine and Cheese
Tired of the same old dinner routine? There’s nothing quite like the classic combination of cheese and wine to shake things up. Whether it’s a casual date night, or a group of friends looking for a fun night out, here are the essential elements for .
- Ambience – Look for cozy spots that offer comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Number of Varieties – Choose venues that offer a great selection of cheese and wine. It’s always best to have a few options to pick from.
- Style – Paired perfectly with your desired ambience, find a location that suits your style. Against the backdrop of an aria, or situated in a late night jazz bar, you’ll be sure to find the perfect spot.
Before finalizing any venue, make sure that both the wine and cheese lists have been reviewed. It’s always great to find a spot that offers unique combinations, exquisite local (as well as international) varieties, and a wide range of flavors. Ask your server for pairing advice or recommendations, or get creative and explore the menu yourself.
No matter where you wind up, an evening of wine and cheese is sure to be a memorable one. With careful research, you’ll be sure to find the perfect spot for you and your guests.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or a fun day with friends, vineyard picnics are an unforgettable way to soak in the beauty of nature while indulging in a glass of your favorite vintage. So, don’t just uncork the bottle; push back your picnic rug and savor the moment.
