Wine games bring extra fun to any casual gathering or dinner party. Adding a few entertaining games can turn an ordinary night into an epic experience. The best and most fun wine games range from lighthearted trivia challenges to hilarious blind wine-tasting contests.

Our list below features interesting games catering to different personalities and settings, guaranteeing a night of great wine, company, and laughter.

What Is a Wine Game?

A wine game is any activity that involves wine as part or center of the fun. Some games focus on testing knowledge, while others encourage laughter and storytelling. Whether played at a wine-tasting party, a casual gathering, or a special celebration, these classic games make alcohol drinking more interactive and interesting.

Most games require minimal setup, making them easy to organize with just a few bottles, glasses, and willing participants. They can be played in small groups or larger parties, allowing everyone to join regardless of their expertise. The game's goal is simple—enjoy your favorite drink in a way that brings people together.

12 Games with Wine

Wine Tasting Game

A wine-tasting game is a great way to challenge your palate while having fun.

1. Blind Wine Tasting

Blind wine tasting challenges players to identify wines without seeing the name, relying only on their sense of taste and smell.

How to Play:

• Choose a selection of vino kept in a bag and pour them into numbered glasses.

• Game participants take turns tasting each bottle and writing down their varietal, region, or price range.

• After everyone has tasted, reveal the bottles and see who got the most correct answers.

Tips to Make It More Interesting:

• Include bottles with similar flavor profiles to make distinguishing them trickier.

• Hide the bottle in a bag to keep the mystery.

• Use a mix of well-known and obscure varieties.

• Set a time limit for each to keep the game moving.

Variations:

• Food Pairing Challenge: Serve small bites with each bottle and have attendees match the pairing.

• Budget vs. Luxury Game: Include affordable and high-end wines and see if participants can differentiate the taste or price.

• Regional Showdown: Choose from different countries and have players speculate their origins.

2. Wine Tasting Tournament

For a more structured wine party, a wine-tasting tournament turns sipping into a competitive event. Tasters compare wines and vote on their favorites in categories like “Best Overall” or “Most Unexpected Flavor.”

How to Play:

1. Select a variety from your wine cellar (and keep them inside a bag) across different styles or regions.

2. Set up tasting stations with small pours of each alcohol.

3. Taste and score each bottle based on aroma, flavor, and balance.

4. To keep things fair, players should pay close attention to the notes and not be influenced by brand.

5. At the end, tally the votes and announce winners in different categories.

Tips for Setting Up the Tournament:

• Provide scorecards with categories like acidity, sweetness, and complexity.

• Keep the bottles in paper bags for a blind-tasting experience.

• Stick to a certain price point to keep comparisons fair game.

Variations:

• Budget vs. Premium Game: Include vino at different price levels and see if they can tell the difference.

• Course Pairing: Pair each with a slight bite, turning it into a mini dinner party.

• Theme-Based Tournament: Choose a single grape variety, like Pinot Noir, and compare bottles from different regions and price ranges.

3. Wine Trivia

Wine trivia is an excellent choice for a wine-tasting party that sparks conversation. Whether your friends are casual drinkers or self-proclaimed wine geeks, this game brings an educational twist to the fun.

How to Play:

• Prepare wine-related questions covering history, regions, production, and fun facts.

• Players of the game take turns answering, earning points for correct responses.

• The person (or team) with the most points at the end wins the game.

Sample Trivia Questions:

• Which country produces the most wine? (Answer: Italy)

• What does the term "terroir" refer to in winemaking? (Answer: The environment in which grapes are grown, including soil, climate, and topography.)

• What type of wine is made from Pinot Noir grapes in Champagne? (Answer: Blanc de Noirs)

• Which wine is traditionally served chilled: Cabernet Sauvignon or Sauvignon Blanc? (Answer: Sauvignon Blanc)

Variations:

• Team-Based Trivia: Split the squad into teams for a more interactive experience.

• Speed Round: Set a timer and challenge game players to answer as many questions as possible.

• Blindfolded Hypothesis: Play an extra round where participants must identify wines based on taste alone.

4. Two Truths and a Lie (Wine Edition)

This classic drinking game gets a wine-themed twist, making it an excellent way for wine geeks to assess their knowledge while sharing a few laughs. Each player takes turns stating three wine-related facts—two truths and one false—while the rest of the group tries to identify the lie.

How to Play:

1. Each player prepares three statements about wine.

2. The group listens and discusses which statement they think is false.

3. Once everyone has made their guess, the player reveals the lie.

4. The person who guesses correctly the most times is the winner.

Examples of Wine-Related Truths and Lies:

• True: "Champagne can only come from the Champagne region of France."

• True: "Most rosé wines are made by briefly fermenting red grapes with their skins."

• Lie: "Red wine should always be served at room temperature, no matter the climate."

Variations:

• Regional Focus: Limit the facts to a specific wine region, like Napa Valley or Bordeaux.

• Tasting Edition: Have players taste from one bottle and describe its characteristics.

• Blindfolded Round: Players take turns tasting wines hidden in paper bags and must include a statement about the flavor.

5. Wine Charades or Pictionary

A fun addition to any wine-tasting party, this game challenges everyone to act out or draw wine-related words and phrases. It’s an easy way to keep the energy high, especially after a few tasting rounds.

How to Play:

1. Write down wine-related words on slips of paper.

2. Players take turns drawing a slip from a bag or bowl, acting it out (Charades), or sketching it (Pictionary) without using words or letters.

3. The group shouts their guesses until someone gets it right.

4. For an extra twist, players must draw or act out the words with only their right hand.

5. The correct answer earns a point, and the player with the most points wins.

Ideas for Wine-Related Words & Phrases:

• "Swirling a glass"

• "Corked wine"

• "Sommelier"

• "Tannins"

• "Spilled wine"

• "Decanter"

Variations:

• Wine Label Game: Instead of random words, players must draw or act out famous wine brands.

• Tasting-Themed: Assign players a tasting term, like "buttery" or "oaky," and have them act it out without saying the word.

• Team Play: Pair up to compete in teams instead of individually.

6.  Wine Bingo

Wine bingo is a classic game that can be used to engage participants during a wine-tasting party. Instead of numbers, the Bingo cards feature wine-related terms, flavors, or characteristics.

How to Play:

• Create Bingo cards with words like “oak,” “buttery,” “bold tannins,” and “fruit-forward.”

• As players sip the same wines, they mark off matching descriptions on their cards.

• The first person to complete a row shouts “Bingo!” and wins a prize.

Ideas for Custom Bingo Cards:

• Tasting Notes: Use common wine descriptors such as “citrus,” “spicy,” and “earthy.”

• Wine Regions Game: List famous wine regions like Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Tuscany.

• Wine Geeks' Habits: Include phrases like “swirls their glass,” “talks about tannins,” or “sniffs dramatically.”

Variations:

• Theme-Based Bingo: Focus on styles like sparkling wines or reds from a single region.

• Trivia Bingo: Mix in wine-related questions, which players must answer correctly before marking their cards.

7. Wine Glass Scavenger Hunt

This interesting game adds an element of mystery to your gathering, making it a great icebreaker in any wine cellar or home setting. The goal is simple: find hidden wine glasses before the bottle of wine runs out!

How to Play:

1. Hide empty wine glasses around the party space before the game starts.

2. Write clues leading to each hiding spot.

3. Each person search for the glasses, using the hints provided.

4. The winner is the first person to collect a complete set of glasses.

Hiding Spot Suggestions:

• Inside the wine cellar, kitchen cabinets, or under a dining table.

• Tucked behind a favorite bottle on a rack.

• Near decorative wine accessories or in a cozy nook.

Variations:

• Timed Challenge: Game players race against the clock to find as many glasses as possible.

• Tasting Bonus: Each found glass earns a small pour of a different wine.

• Grape Varietal Twist: Label each hidden glass with a different grape varietal, and participants must match their find to a wine of the same variety.

8. Wine Label Game

This wine-tasting party game revolves around the often-overlooked details on a tag, creatively challenging the players’ observation skills. It’s perfect for a relaxed evening of conversation and laughter.

How to Play:

1. Gather a selection of wine bottles with unique branding.

2. Remove or cover up the names to make identification trickier.

3. Participants either:

   • Identify the place, winery, or grape varietals based on design elements.

   • Create a short fictional story inspired by the design.

Fun Challenges:

• Decipher the Clues: Attendees match tasting notes to the corresponding bottle of wine.

• Creative Storytelling: Players invent the history behind a label, and the best story wins.

• Blind Comparison: Mix wines from different regions and challenge guests to sort the branding correctly.

Variations:

• Vintage Edition: Use older wines correctly labeled by year and see who can place them chronologically.

• Custom Label Game: Let everyone design their bottles and vote for the best.

9. Wine Aroma Challenge

This next game is a true assessment for any wine expert, and it focuses on the fruit, spice, and earthy notes that make each wine unique. Perfect for those who enjoy the finer details of a bottle of wine, this challenge refines the senses while keeping things fun.

How to Play:

1. Pour different wines from a bag into separate glasses.

2. Without tasting, oenophiles must identify the aromas by smell alone.

3. Each correct answer earns a point, and the player with the most points wins the game.

Common Wine Aromas:

• Fruit: Cherry, blackberry, green apple, citrus.

• Floral: Rose, violet, elderflower.

• Earthy & Spicy: Oak, tobacco, vanilla, cinnamon.

Variations:

• Blindfolded Round: The fun part is that attendees rely only on their noses to guess the wine.

• Guess the Region: Players match the aroma to the correct wine-producing area.

• Tasting Notes Match: Provide a list of tasting notes; participants must assign them to the correct wines.

10. Wine and Cheese Pairing Game

A party favorite, this game challenges your friends to match different cheeses with the right wines. It’s a fun way to explore flavors while keeping things interactive.

How to Play:

1. Set up a game table with an assortment of cheeses and wines.

2. Label the cheeses, but keep the wines anonymous.

3. Guests take a sip of wine and try to pair it with the cheese they think complements it best.

4. After everyone has made their selections, reveal the ideal pairings.

Tips for Selecting Cheeses and Wines:

When selecting cheeses, purchase a mix of textures and flavors that complement different flavors.

• Soft cheeses (Brie, Camembert) pair well with reds like Pinot Noir.

• Hard cheeses (Cheddar, Parmesan) complement bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon.

• Goat cheese works well with crisp whites such as Sauvignon Blanc.

• Blue cheese pairs with sweet wines like Port or Riesling.

Variations:

• Blind Tasting: Guests don’t see the wine or cheese labels.

• Other Food Pairings: Add chocolates, fruits, or nuts for extra complexity.

• Competitive Twist: The player with the most correct matches wins a prize.

11. Wine-themed Murder Mystery

This interesting game turns your party into a mystery, wine, and storytelling night. The best part? It works well with small or large groups.

How to Play:

1. Choose a plot and assign characters to your friends.

2. Each player receives a character description, along with clues and objectives.

3. Throughout the evening, guests talk to each other, gather information, and try to solve the mystery.

4. The first person to correctly identify the "killer" wins.

Character & Plot Ideas:

• The Winemaker’s Secret: Set in a vineyard where the owner mysteriously disappears.

• A Toast to Murder: A celebration turns deadly when an expensive bottle of wine is poisoned.

• The Stolen Vintage: A rare wine goes missing, and everyone is a suspect.

Variations:

• Set in a Famous Wine Region: France, Italy, or Napa Valley make great backdrops.

• Wine Clue Edition: Pair each clue with a different wine.

• Quick Play Version: Shorter storylines for a faster-paced game.

12. Wine Regions Around the World

This game can be played as a quiz, board game, or an interactive map challenge to try your guests' knowledge of wine geography.

How to Play:

1. Create a table with maps, flags, and bottles from different wine regions.

2. Players must match the wine glasses to the correct province and region.

3. For each correct match, the player earns a point.

4. Add item cards to encourage guests to guess the vintage or producer for an extra challenge.

5. The person with the highest score in this game wins a prize money.

Notable Wine Regions and Their Characteristics:

• Bordeaux, France – Known for bold red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

• Tuscany, Italy – Famous for Sangiovese-based wines like Chianti.

• Napa Valley, USA – Home to world-class Cabernet Sauvignon.

• Mendoza, Argentina – The land of Malbec.

Variations:

• Map Challenge: Wine geeks physically place wine bottles on a world map.

• Blind Tasting Edition: Guests identify the region based on taste alone.

• Wine Trivia Round: Mix in questions about history, price, making wine, and grape varieties.

 Wine Tasting Party Tips

Hosting a wine-tasting party takes a bit of planning, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Keep these tips in mind:

• Have a Variety of Wines – Offer a mix of red, white, and sparkling wines of different prices to cater to various preferences.

• Use the Right Glassware – Different wines shine best in proper glasses, enhancing aromas and taste.

• Provide Tasting Notes – Give attendees a simple guide to jot down their thoughts on flavor, aroma, and texture.

• Start With Lighter Wines – Plan the tasting course carefully, starting with lighter varieties before moving to bold reds to avoid overwhelming the palate.

• Keep Water and Snacks on Hand – Neutral crackers and water help cleanse the palate between tastings.

• Encourage Responsible Drinking – Remind participants to pace themselves and provide options for safe transportation if needed.

How to Make a Wine Night Fun

A wine night should be about creating an unforgettable experience. Here’s how to make it memorable and fun:

• Choose a Theme – A structured theme, such as “Old World vs. New World Wines” or a “Blind Wine Tasting Game,” adds excitement.

• Include Games – Mix in a few board games to keep the energy lively.

• Pair With Food – Cheese, chocolate, or small bites complement the wine and enhance the flavors.

• Set the Mood – Use soft lighting, music, and elegant glassware to create a cozy or sophisticated game night ambiance.

• Encourage Participation – Get everyone involved by assigning minor roles, like scorekeeper or wine pourer.

• Store wines properly – Ensure your wine storage solutions or wine cellar work correctly to keep them at their best during the game.

Wine Games Night Essentials: Keep Your Wines Chilled

Wines at the right temperature, organized storage, and proper accessories are simple but essential elements, making wine games night smoother and more fun. When selecting accessories, pay attention to durability and functionality to get the best value for your money. Here are some essentials to consider (click image to shop):

Wine Guardian Luxury Enoteca Style Single Zone Wine Fridge

Consider the storage capacity and cooling features when deciding which fridge to purchase. This high-end wine fridge is perfect for keeping wines at a consistent temperature during game night.

• Precise Cooling – Maintains the ideal temperature for wine bottles with advanced climate control.

• Sleek Design – A stylish addition that blends into any space.

• Quiet Operation – Keeps the focus on the game without loud humming.

Summit 46-bottle Dual Zone Stainless Steel Built-In Wine Cooler

Great for hosting a wine-tasting party and a good purchase, this wine cooler accommodates a variety of bottles.

• Dual Temperature Zones – Perfect for serving reds and whites at the proper temperatures.

• Spacious Capacity – Holds up to 46 wine bottles, making it ideal for larger gatherings.

• Flexible Installation – Can be built into cabinets or used as a freestanding unit.

Le Cache Mission Credenza Provincial

This elegant wine storage unit adds style while keeping wine bottles safe and organized.

• Proper Storage Conditions – Insulated to protect against heat and humidity.

• Classic Design – Complements traditional and modern décor.

• Spacious Interior – Holds multiple wine bottles and accessories.

Urban Ironcraft Countertop Pillar Wine Rack – 8 Bottle Countertop Series

A stylish way to display wines during board game night. Guests will appreciate a well-organized setup, making paying attention to the tasting experience easy.

• Space-Saving Design – Fits on countertops for easy access.

• Durable Construction – Made from strong iron for long-lasting use.

• Holds Multiple Bottles – Keeps up to 8 bottles within reach.

WineKeeper Napa 8-Bottle Mahogany

This wine preservation system is excellent value for money. It's ideal for serving wines at their best quality throughout the game.

• Preserve Freshness – Keeps open bottles fresh for weeks.

• Elegant Wood Finish – A refined look for any party setup.

• Easy to Use – Simple dispensing system for quick pours.

Blind Wine Tasting Kit with Storage Pouch – Professional Set

Perfect for organizing a blind wine-tasting game.

• All-in-One Set – Includes numbered bags, cards, and a storage pouch.

• Reusable – Designed for multiple events.

• Adds Challenge – Makes the game more exciting.

Tasting Display Elite Kit Rack – Individual

A must-have for keeping tasting events organized.

• Professional Layout – Keeps each wine’s details clear.

• Durable and Reusable – Built for frequent use.

• Enhances the Experience – Helps friends track their favorites.

Summit 14.5" Slim Fitting Built-In Ice Maker

A party essential for chilling whites and champagnes quickly or making cocktails.

• Compact Size – Fits neatly into any bar or kitchen setup.

• Continuous Ice Supply – Ensures drinks stay cold all night.

• Built-In or Freestanding – Works in different spaces.

Large Olivewood Cheese Board

Ideal for food and wine pairing games.

• Generous Size – Fits multiple cheeses, crackers, and fruits for tasting games.

• Durable Material – Made from strong, natural olivewood.

• Stylish Presentation – A centerpiece for any dinner party.

Before you purchase, compare different models to find one that fits your space and needs.

Conclusion

Hosting a dinner party night of wine games is a great way to unite people while enjoying good wine. These activities add fun and interaction to any gathering, allowing friends to test their knowledge, try new wines, and share many laughs. Whether it’s a blind-tasting party, trivia, or a creative label challenge, there’s a game for every wine lover.

Grab wine bottles, invite friends, and make your next get-together more entertaining. What's your favorite wine board game? If you try these games, share your favorite moments in the comments!

Randy Green

Randy is a true wine storage aficionado and expert in wine cellar design. He gained construction experience as a partner in a general contracting business before niching into and passionately focusing on creating wine storage solutions for clients in 2016. He takes great pride in bringing these designs to life, and is dedicated to ensuring that every wine cellar he creates is not only functional but also a beautiful addition to any home or business. The Wine Cellar HQ team also includes refrigeration sizing experts and licensed HVAC technicians to ensure optimal climate control for your wine cellar, so that your wines can age to perfection.