🍷 Let the Wine Shine: Mal’s Top Tips for Pairing & Pouring at Your Longest Table
Forkstars, are you ready to raise your glasses and your hosting game? Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or just discovering the magic of vino, we’ve got the inside sip from none other than Mal from Hither & Yon – our fabulous (and official!) wine partner for The Longest Table.
Mal knows a thing or two about making wine work at a party – and his number one tip? Make wine part of the story. “It’s always nice to walk into a room and see bottles on the table,” he says. “It’s a chance for hosts to express themselves – through the wines they choose, the labels they love, or even just the colours and vibe they bring.”
So, whether you're matching wine with a dish or just looking to spark conversation, here's how Mal recommends you pour a little extra magic into your event.
🍾 Make Wine the (Conversation) Starter
Forget awkward small talk – wine is the ultimate icebreaker! Each bottle has a story: where it’s from, the grape, the people behind it… and let’s be honest, the labels are basically tiny pieces of art.
Mal suggests thinking of your wine selection like part of your decor. “It’s a visual. You can style it, create interest. People love picking up the bottle and asking, ‘What’s this one about?’” Suddenly, you’re not just pouring wine – you’re sharing a moment.
🍇 Wine for All Palates (Even the Newbies!)
New to wine or hosting guests who aren’t sure where to start? Don’t stress – Mal’s got your back.
“You can play it safe with something familiar,” he says, “or take the opportunity to try something a little different.” That’s where Hither & Yon’s Mediterranean-style wines come in – they’re approachable, easy-drinking, and fun to explore.
Here are a couple of Mal’s top picks for beginners and beyond:
- Fiano (white) – An Italian variety, really refreshing, simple citrus fruits with maritime influence. It’s the kind of white wine that works beautifully on its own or as a light, zesty pairing with your spread.
- Grenache (red) – It’s a great introduction to red wine, especially for guests who prefer something soft, smooth and fruit-forward. This is a red you can even lightly chill –it’s super versatile!
These wines are perfect for beginner sippers and seasoned swirlers alike — think of them as the crowd-pleasers of your wine line-up. Whether you’re introducing someone to their first glass or pouring for a room full of wine lovers, Fiano and Grenache are sure to go down a treat.
And, if you’re ever asking yourself, "Am I doing wine right?" – the answer is yes. If you like it, you’re doing it right.
🧀 Pair It Like a Pro (Without Overthinking It)
Let’s talk pairings. No need to memorise rules or Google “what wine goes with chicken” for the tenth time. Mal’s advice? Keep it simple and open.
🍷 Red wines
Great for grilled dishes – whether it’s meat, veggie-based, or cheesy share plates. “Red wine has so much character now, it doesn’t have to go with a whole plate,” Mal says. “It’s great for grazing, for trying different bits and pieces.” (So yes, your grazing board is practically begging for a bold red.)
🐟 White wines
Perfect with local seafood and lighter meats. “Something clean and simple like garfish? Go for a fresh white. Something with a bit more oomph, like mullet? Pick a white with a little more body.” And yes, chicken definitely fits here too.
🌸 Rosé, orange and skin-contact wines
“Lots of fun,” Mal grins. “They’ve got character – natural, sometimes funky – and they go so well with cheese.” Think variety, texture, flavour explosions… These wines are playful, and cheese boards love them.
Watch the video below to hear from Mal himself!
🥂 Make It Memorable (And Fundraise While You’re At It)
The best part? Wine at your Longest Table isn’t just about flavour – it’s about creating moments, making memories, and helping raise vital funds for cancer research.
Whether you’re pairing with food, styling it into your decor, or using it for fun games (hello, wine wall and guess-the-grape!), wine can bring a whole new layer of excitement to your event.
🍇 Ready to Pour Some Magic Into Your Table?
Our official wine partner, Hither & Yon, has you covered with exclusive offers just for Longest Table hosts:
- 20% off online (excluding mixed packs) so you can stock up with savings.
- An exclusive 6-pack (3x Pink Fizz Petit Rouge + 3x Petit Blanc) for just $120 (RRP $174) – with 10% going back to The Longest Table!
- Plus, a limited run of the Pink Fizz Petit Rouge – only a limited number of bottles available! Grab yours before it’s gone. 💕
