In recent years, wine consumption has shifted from high-end restaurants and wineries to more intimate, home-based settings. With the changing landscape of social gatherings and a growing emphasis on personalised experiences, consumers now prefer to savour their favourite wines in the comfort of their homes, often creating a more relaxed and tailored atmosphere. Whether it’s a casual dinner, a quiet night in, or a lively social gathering, wine has become the drink of choice for millions across the globe.
Why home wine consumption is thriving
Several factors have contributed to the rise of home wine enjoyment. First and foremost, the increasing variety and accessibility of wine, particularly from emerging markets like South Africa, has made it easier for consumers to explore new options from the comfort of their homes. Online shopping, wine delivery services, and subscription boxes allow wine lovers to try new vintages and styles without leaving the comfort of their homes.
Secondly, as more people prioritise work-life balance, there has been a notable rise in casual and stress-free socialising. Often seen as an unpretentious but sophisticated drink, wine fits seamlessly into this lifestyle. It pairs well with various foods and can be enjoyed anytime, making it a go-to for many at-home gatherings.
Lastly, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the trend of drinking wine at home. With restaurants and bars closing or limiting capacity, many turned to hosting small gatherings or quiet nights, enhancing the popularity of creating personal wine experiences in the home setting. Even after restrictions eased, the culture of home wine enjoyment remained.
Out with Sober-October. Let’s instead enjoy “Come Over October.”
The newly launched “Come Over October” campaign has perfectly capitalised on this growing trend. Designed to bring people together in a responsible, fun, and innovative way, this initiative is all about inviting friends and family into your home or to your tasting room to enjoy South African wine. Negating the “Sober October” movement, this initiative aims to make this month an ideal time for wine enthusiasts to indulge in creative ways of enjoying their favourite drink – all in a responsible way, of course!
Innovative and fun ways to enjoy wine at home
The essence of “Come Over October” revolves around transforming a simple wine night into an extraordinary and memorable experience. Here are a few fun, innovative, and responsible ways to enjoy your favourite South African wine in your home:
Wine and food pairing dinners
Elevate your next dinner party with a curated wine and food pairing experience. South African wines are known for their rich flavours, making them the perfect companion to various dishes. Consider serving a crisp Chenin Blanc with a seafood starter or pairing a bold Shiraz with a hearty, flavourful meat dish. To add an extra layer of excitement, create a menu featuring dishes inspired by South African cuisine, such as bobotie or a braai.
Wine tasting flights
Bring the vineyard experience into your home with a wine-tasting flight. Select a variety of South African wines that showcase different grapes and regions. For example, you can offer your guests a flight with a Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon, a Swartland Syrah, and a Franschhoek Chardonnay. To make it even more interactive, encourage guests to discuss their tasting notes and preferences, turning the evening into an educational and entertaining experience.
Wine and cheese pairing night
Few things pair better than wine and cheese; South African wines are no exception. Host a wine and cheese pairing night with various cheeses that complement the wine selection. For instance, a fruity Pinotage can be beautifully matched with aged cheddar, while a Sauvignon Blanc might pair well with fresh goat cheese. Provide tasting cards for guests to jot down their thoughts and discover new favourite combinations.
Wine cocktails
Wine cocktails are a creative and refreshing way to enjoy South African wines, particularly in warmer climates. Sangria, for example, is a popular choice, and you can add a South African twist using a fruity local wine like Pinotage. Another option is the wine spritzer—mix your favourite white wine with sparkling water, a splash of fruit juice, and a dash of grenadine for a light, bubbly drink. These cocktails are perfect for those who want to enjoy wine in a more casual and fun manner.
Blind tasting games
Want to make your wine evening more competitive? Organise a blind-tasting game where guests must guess the type of wine, grape variety, or even the region it hails from. This game adds an element of surprise and excitement to the evening, allowing guests to test their wine knowledge in a fun, low-pressure environment. Be sure to include South African wines with distinctive flavour profiles, such as Chenin Blanc or Pinotage, for an added challenge.
Responsible wine enjoyment
The “Come Over October” campaign strongly emphasises responsible drinking. As enjoyable as wine gatherings are, it’s essential to consume alcohol mindfully. Hosting your wine nights at home allows you to control the environment and pace of consumption, ensuring that everyone drinks responsibly. Offer water and non-alcoholic options, serve plenty of food, and encourage moderation throughout the evening.
From pairing dinners to wine-tasting flights, there are countless ways to celebrate this beloved drink while enjoying it responsibly in the comfort of your home. So, this October, why not invite friends, open a bottle of South African wine, and create lasting memories around a shared table?
Join the conversation or follow along on Instagram using @comeoveroctober or #comeoveroctober. To learn more about the Come Over October campaign, visit their website: www.comeoveroctober.com.
