4 Wines you need to try now for your spring celebrations (and how to make it joyful)

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As a wine professional with a WSET Level 3 certificate and a joyful living health coach, I’m excited to share some essential wines for your spring celebrations. But here's the thing: it’s not just about the wine. It’s about creating an atmosphere that brings joy, connection, and fun to every moment you share with friends.

What will you get from reading this post? Here’s what we’ll dive into:

• 4 essential wines that will elevate your spring gatherings.

• Practical tips to create a joyful atmosphere in any space—whether it's a casual lunch or an elegant dinner.

• Food pairing ideas to enhance the flavors of each wine and make your event feel special.

Create an Atmosphere of Joy: 3 Simple Ways to Transform Your Gathering

It’s not just the wine that makes a gathering memorable—it’s the environment you create. Here’s how to turn your space into a haven of joy:

1. Set the Mood with Lighting

Lighting can truly transform your space, setting the mood for your celebration. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or a lively evening with friends, the right lighting creates a welcoming ambiance. String lights, candles, or lanterns add warmth and charm, while scents like lavender or citrus provide a relaxing atmosphere. Start with soft, warm lighting to make everyone feel at ease and ready to unwind.

2. Bring the Outdoors In with Fresh Flowers

Spring is all about fresh energy and new beginnings. Fresh flowers or potted plants can completely change the vibe of your space. Choose seasonal blooms like tulips or daffodils to celebrate the season or add small plants like succulents or herbs to bring nature into your home. Not only do they brighten up your room, but they also elevate the mood and connect you with the beauty of nature.

3. Curate the Perfect Music Playlist

Music has a profound effect on how we feel and interact. Choose music that matches the energy you want to create: upbeat tunes for a lively atmosphere or mellow, instrumental tracks for a more relaxed vibe. Set your playlist in advance and let the music flow through the evening. A good playlist will keep the energy high and make your gathering feel effortless.

The Wines You Need for a Joyful Spring Celebration

Now, let’s get into the wines that will truly set your spring celebrations apart. Here’s what you need to know about the wines you’ll want to have on hand—and how to pair them perfectly with food to create a celebration everyone will remember.

1. Falanghina

If you love fresh, crisp white wines that are aromatic and lively, you need to try Falanghina. This wine is a crowd-pleaser with its bright citrus and green apple notes, complemented by a subtle herbal finish.

Falanghina is perfect for light, seafood-based dishes or simple salads. It’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of spring dishes, from shrimp to goat cheese.

If you’re hosting a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired meal, this wine will instantly elevate the experience. It’s perfect for any gathering where you want the wine to be just as fresh and joyful as the season itself.

Serve Falanghina with your next seafood dinner, a fresh salad, or even as an aperitif with appetizers. You’ll see how easily it elevates your celebration.

2. Friulano

Friulano is an elegant white wine with a vibrant acidity and a smooth, mineral finish. If you enjoy wines that offer both complexity and freshness, this one is a must-try.

Friulano pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired dishes, such as roasted vegetables or grilled chicken. You’ll love it with my hearts of palm ceviche in my Spring Equinox Wine and Food Pairing Guide. Go ahead and grab a copy of it here.

This wine is perfect for a laid-back lunch with friends or a dinner where you want something refreshing but substantial. It’s versatile enough to work with a variety of spring dishes.

Pop open a bottle of Friulano and pair it with your next grilled vegetable platter or fresh salad. You’ll notice how the wine complements the fresh flavors of your meal.

3. Cinsault

Cinsault is a light, fruity red wine with soft tannins and vibrant berry flavors. It’s perfect for those who prefer reds but still want something light and refreshing.

Cinsault is ideal for casual gatherings, pairing wonderfully with a charcuterie board or grilled chicken. Its fruity profile makes it incredibly food-friendly and easy to sip throughout an evening.

If you’re hosting a barbecue or a fun picnic with friends, Cinsault is the wine that will keep the vibe light and joyful. It’s perfect for those moments when you just want to relax and enjoy great company.

Open a bottle of Cinsault at your next picnic or casual BBQ. Pair it with your favorite snacks or grilled meats, and let the wine shine as the centerpiece of your gathering.

4. Carignan

Carignan is a bold, deep red wine with blackberry and plum flavors, complemented by subtle smoky notes. It’s a wine that demands attention and is perfect for hearty dishes.

Carignan pairs beautifully with BBQ meats, rich stews, or anything with a smoky flavor. It’s the wine you reach for when you want something with depth and complexity. It’s super tasty with my caramelized onion bison burger.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, Carignan will provide a rich contrast to lighter spring wines. It’s the wine that helps you embrace the full spectrum of flavors in your celebration.

Serve Carignan at your next grilled feast or hearty dinner. It pairs wonderfully with dishes like smoky ribs, grilled sausages, or vegetable stews.

Why These Wines Will Elevate Your Spring Celebrations

By now, you’ve learned how to set the mood for a joyful celebration and have discovered 4 essential spring wines that will elevate any gathering. Whether you’re creating a cozy atmosphere with lighting and flowers or serving wines like Falanghina, Friulano, Cinsault, and Carignan, these wines are perfect for pairing with the fresh, vibrant flavors of the season.

What action can you take today? Plan your next gathering and include one or more of these wines. You’ll see how easy it is to create a joyful, memorable celebration, and I’ll be right there with you to guide you through the process.

Ready to host your own joyful spring celebration? Sign up for The Lush Letter to join me for my virtual tasting to explore wines with friends and learn how to choose wines with confidence. You’ll also want to grab my Spring Equinox Wine and Food Pairing Guide for more pairing ideas and tips to create a joyful gathering. Don’t miss out—sign up today!

Cheers,

Courtney