Things To Do

Pot Lucks And Blind Tastings—How To Level-Up Your Summer Entertaining

By Renée Ardon-Coppinger

Keen to unlock the best of summer but wanting to mix up that same old dinner party routine? We’ve teamed up with Red Rock Deli to level up your entertaining this sunny season with some clever hacks for unique experiences perfect for pals or an intimate date night.

Here’s five ways to elevate your summer entertaining this summer.

Chip In For A Pot-Luck Picnic

We love a swanky night out, but how about shaking things up and curating an intimate moment for your nearest and dearest at home instead? Ask your guests to whip up their beloved go-to signature dish and a picnic rug, then get ready to share a stunning dinner alfresco. There’s something lovely about cooking for those you love, and who knows, you might pick up some great new recipes to add to your culinary repertoire. Kick off with Red Rock Deli’s moreish Sweet Chilli and Sour Cream delights that pair perfectly with a fresh chardonnay or tempranillo, then tour the globe by selecting a culinary theme—head to South East Asia or throw together a hearty Italo-inspired spread.

Give A Blind Chip And Sip Tasting A Go

Set a price limit, assign each guest a vino type (i.e. a Chardy for Betsie, a Tempranillo for James), then wrap them up, hide the label and get ready to sample the most delightful drops. Perhaps set a country as inspo, or support hyper-local and stick to the plethora of wildly talented producers around the country or your state. If you're feeling extra clever, why not sample one of our Red Rock Deli chip and sip pairings a go too? Thank us later.

Red Rock Deli

Bring Out Your Competitive Side

Hear us out—games night, but not as you know it. If you’re anything like us with a little bit (or a lot of) an underlying hidden streak, then up the stakes on your classic board game evening for something a little bit more adrenaline-pumping. Create a series of challenges to suit your space—the viral blindfolded Marshmallow game that’s stormed our feeds is a winner—then crown your champs over an Olympic-sized feast. To keep that hunger at bay, make sure there's plenty of Red Rock Deli chips going around as winner's fuel.

Watch A Blockbuster Under The Stars

With this stunning balmy weather, what better time to go alfresco with an outdoor movie night. Whether it be out on your apartment terrace, out on a grassy patch or wherever there’s a little room, creating an at-home cinema is not only adorable but super easy. Throw up a sheet, hire a projector (or sleuth out a cheapie on Marketplace) then rally up your crew for an evening of sipping with a classic under the stars. Grab yourself a crisp prosecco, team it up with Red Rock Deli’s heavenly Australian Sea Salt chippies, BYO a ton of pillows and snuggle up for a charming little delicious evening.

Red Rock Deli

Become A Vino Connoisseur

If blind tasting is not your thing, why not get a little more educated around your favourite drops and bring some of that thirsty knowledge to the literal table. Now a super popular online trend, the Wine Day involves each bringing a bottle then divulging on the unique tasting notes before sharing. You’ll not only leave with stacks of new information, but you’ll be one step closer to those sommelier dreams. If you lean towards a red, kick off the event with a smooth Pinot Noir and Red Rock Deli’s Honey Soy Chicken chips. If you’re more of a white snob, you can’t beat a zesty Pinot Gris and zingy Sea Salt and Balsamic Vinegar chip. 

Keen to learn more about chip and sip pairings to make any occasion? Check out our perfect pairings and head to Red Rock Deli to learn more this season.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Red Rock Deli and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.

Image: Supplied

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