The Ultimate Picnic Checklist
Though I grew up in Washington, nothing has made me appreciate nature more than living in New York City – and fewer times are greater to exist in the city than in the Spring. The trees are green, Central Park is abloom with tulips, and people are friendlier. It feels as if the city is once again grateful to be alive and its residents to be living where they are. We have escaped the gray.
The best way, I have decided, to celebrate the warm weather is by picnic.
Grab your favorite bottle of wine from a local winery or shop and head outdoors. Park, beach, backyard, you name it. Call a friend, current or prospective lover, or go solo. There is no one way to picnic, but it certainly pays to be prepared.
The weather is finally nice and you’re eager to run out the door… it’s easy to forget things.
Let’s make a checklist.
1. Corkscrew
Unless you’re going to a well-populated picnic area and are willing to make some friends, this one is absolutely essential. Don’t ask how many times I have opted for a screw cap wine at the shop because I forgot my corkscrew. (As a rule of thumb, chilled white wines and rosés are often better with a screw cap, while red wines can benefit from a cork, as corks let in a small amount of air.)
2. Picnic blanket
Sitting on your jean jacket is fine if you are okay with a couple mud stains and rubbing shoulders with your buddy. Otherwise, I highly recommend investing in a good picnic blanket. Something waterproof on the bottom – you can never be too sure with Spring weather.
Here are a couple blankets I think would be great:
3. Wine glasses
This one varies. Some type of cup is essential but varietal-specific wine glasses can be hard to transport.
Here are a few options that I have come across:
- Plastic & pastel for a fun and affordable pop.
- These Govino glasses are great for a more upscale vibe.
- A tumbler is a personal favorite if you like keeping your beverage chilled.
- Or, if you want to bring your glasses from home, try out these wine bottle and glass holder sticks.
4. Speaker
This one is optional, but if you appreciate some good tunes while you snack and chat, music sounds much better when it is not coming from your phone.
5. Water
Wine and sun make you thirsty.
6. Wine!
The best wine to bring is the one that you most enjoy drinking. But since you’re reading, my favorite varietals to bring to a picnic include:
- Sauvignon Blanc – the light, fruity, and crisp acidity of this wine is a great addition to warm weather (and a crowd pleaser).
- Pinot Noir – This light to medium bodied red is perfect for a picnic. This wine is best served slightly chilled.
- Bubbles! For a more brunch-y picnic, opt for something fun and bright. I like Prosecco for a more celebratory feel, and Vinho Verde is great if you want something more toned down.
- Reisling or Moscato – pairs perfect with fruit and satisfies that sweet tooth.
7. Finally, snacks
No picnic is complete without something to munch on.
1. Charcuterie is an obvious choice. Pick your cheese and meats according to your wine preference. Spice it up by trying out some new olives.
2. Tinned fish is continuing to have its moment. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to your nearest grocery store and browse the selection. Mussels pairs well with sauvignon blanc and vinho verde while mackerel goes great with champagne or cava.
3. Takeout! Grab a burger, sushi, pizza – you name it.
Go get some fresh air and indulge.
Editor
Natalie is co-founder and editor of The Grapevine Magazine where she helps winemakers big and small tell their stories. She lives in Manhattan, New York City.
