Ultimate Guide: How to Have the Perfect Wine and Food-Friendly Picnic

Simple Steps, Must-Have Essentials & Wine Pairing Tips

When the sun is shining and the air feels just right, there’s nothing more enjoyable than a perfectly planned wine and food-friendly picnic. Whether you’re setting up at a local park, heading to the beach, or enjoying vineyard views, the right bottle (or two) of wine paired with a delicious spread makes all the difference.

At Kascadia Wine Merchants, we believe that great wine elevates every moment, and your outdoor gatherings should be no exception. Here's how to create a picnic that’s equal parts effortless and unforgettable.

1. Pack the Picnic Must-Haves

Before you even think about wine, make sure your base setup is ready to go:

• A cozy picnic blanket or foldable chairs

• Insulated wine tote or cooler bag

• Reusable or compostable cups, plates, napkins & utensils

• A cutting board and cheese knife

• Ice packs or chilled sleeves for whites & rosés

• Bottle opener (unless you only bring screw cap!)

• A trash bag or reusable bin for cleanup

Pro Tip: Choose lightweight, packable items so setup (and cleanup) is a breeze.

2. Choose Picnic-Friendly Wines

Not every wine is picnic-ready. You want bottles that are fresh, food-friendly, and easy-drinking. Here are a few warm-weather winners from our collection:

Aromatic Whites & Rosés

• 2022 Spearhead Riesling (BC) – Crisp, citrus-driven, and wildly refreshing with a kiss of minerality. A match made for charcuterie, fresh fruit, or Thai noodle salads.

• 13th Street Cuvée Rosé (Ontario) – This vibrant sparkling rosé offers notes of strawberry and pink grapefruit with a dry, elegant finish. A fun and bubbly twist for any blanket-side toast.

• 2022 Pouya Rosé (Mexico) – Provence-inspired but Mexican-born. This dry rosé is layered with watermelon, cherry blossom, and coastal energy—ideal for grilled shrimp or couscous salad.

• Benjamin Bridge NV Brut (Nova Scotia) – A sparkling wild card! This traditional method bubbly is crisp, refined, and perfect to kick off your picnic with flair. Try it with brie, smoked salmon, or simply toast to the sunshine.

Light Reds (Serve Slightly Chilled!)

• 2016 Left Bend Gali Vineyard Pinot Noir (California) – A beautifully aged Pinot from the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering earthy red fruit, soft tannins, and silky elegance. Serve slightly chilled with mushroom pâté or herbed chicken skewers.

• Megalomaniac Homegrown Red (Ontario) – Juicy, bold, and ready for anything. This crowd-pleasing blend is soft enough to enjoy on its own, but rich enough to pair with smoked sausages or grilled burgers.

• Pinot Noir, Gamay, or Zinfandel – These lighter reds are summer staples. Think low tannins, ripe berry notes, and just enough structure to pair with a variety of picnic favorites—from charcuterie to BBQ chicken.

3. Create a Simple, Stylish Spread

Skip the soggy sandwiches and go for a no-fuss grazing board. Think easy-to-eat, picnic-proof pairings:

• Cheeses: A mix of soft (Brie, goat cheese) and firm (aged cheddar, Manchego)

• Cured meats: Prosciutto, salami, bresaola

• Fresh fruit: Grapes, strawberries, dried apricots

• Extras: Olives, pickles, crackers, nuts, dark chocolate

• Fresh bread or baguette slices

Add in one seasonal salad or a light pasta dish in a reusable container and you’re set!

4. Pick the Perfect Spot

Scenic views and shade go a long way. Choose a location with:

• Ample space and flat ground

• Natural shade or a portable umbrella

• Quiet vibes for relaxed conversation

• Legal permission for alcohol consumption (always check!)

5. Add a Touch of Style

Elevate your picnic with charming touches like:

• A bouquet of wildflowers or herbs in a mason jar

• Linen napkins or cloth wrap for cheeses

• A Bluetooth speaker for low-key background music

• A mini chalkboard wine menu (fun + Instagram-worthy!)

Shop Our Picnic-Worthy Wines

Ready to build your dream picnic? Browse our handpicked selection of summer-perfect wines from across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. Whether you’re craving a crisp white or a smooth red to chill, Kascadia Wine Merchants has your picnic pairings covered.

Explore Wines for Summer Picnics »

Final Sip

Picnics are about slowing down, soaking in the moment, and sharing good wine with good company. Keep it simple, be thoughtful with your wine and food pairings, and let the season’s best flavors shine.

Cheers to unforgettable summer moments,
– The Kascadia Wine Merchants Team