You do not need to choose the wines before contacting a host. The brief gives the host enough context to recommend a suitable direction and identify the practical details that still need agreement.
Start with the reason for the tasting
A birthday gathering, client evening, family celebration and learning-focused session are different occasions. The purpose affects the tone, pace and amount of explanation guests may want.
A relaxed private evening for friends who enjoy wine but do not want a formal class.
This is a planning prompt, not a fixed Sip With Jojo package.
Describe the guests
The most useful information is not whether guests are experts. It is what they are comfortable with and interested in.
- How many people may attend
- Whether most are beginners, enthusiasts or a mixed group
- Whether guests want a relaxed social occasion or more structured explanation
- Known preferences and styles they avoid
- Accessibility, dietary or scheduling needs
- Whether everyone attending is eligible to be served alcohol
A mixed group is not automatically a problem. Mention it so the proposed format does not assume the same knowledge from everyone.
Decide what kind of experience you want
Should the tasting be the main activity or part of a wider occasion? Would guests value a clear theme? How much explanation would feel appropriate? Will food be served before, during or after?
Formal wine education uses structured methods. WSET describes a systematic approach that considers appearance, nose, palate and conclusions. A private social tasting does not need to imitate a qualification course, but a clear sequence can help guests compare what they notice.
Check the venue before fixing the plan
Confirm access and set-up times, seating, glassware, water, food arrangements, chilling and storage, parking or transport, service responsibilities, venue rules and end-of-event clearing. Put responsibilities in writing before the event is promoted or invitations are finalised.
Give the host a budget range
State whether your amount is intended to cover the tasting only or also includes venue, food, service, glassware, delivery, presentation or other event costs. If the budget is still being discussed, give a working range and identify the items that matter most.
Prepare a concise event brief
Occasion: [what you are planning]
Date and time: [details or alternatives]
Venue or area: [confirmed or still open]
Group size: [approximate number]
Guests: [beginners, enthusiasts or mixed]
Preferred style: [relaxed, educational, dinner-based or other]
Budget range: [amount and what it should cover]
Preferences or restrictions: [details]
Questions to settle before confirming
- Date, start time and approximate duration
- Venue and service area
- What is included and excluded
- Who supplies glassware, water, food and other materials
- Set-up, service and clearing responsibilities
- Final price, payment terms and cancellation terms
- What happens if guest numbers or venue details change
Frequently asked questions
Can a private tasting suit beginners?
Yes. Tell the host that the group is new to tasting and describe whether you want a relaxed social format or more explanation. The exact format must be confirmed in the proposal.
How many people can attend?
There is no published group-size limit. Send the expected number, venue and date to Jojo so suitability can be confirmed individually.
Where can the tasting take place?
Venue options are not published as fixed packages. Share your preferred area or venue and confirm what can be arranged.
How long does a tasting take?
Duration depends on the format, discussion and whether the tasting forms part of a meal or wider event.
Ask Jojo about a private tasting
Send the occasion, date, location, group size and budget range.
Plan a private tasting