Guide to Hosting the Coziest Après-Ski Wine Night

Jason McClain

An après-ski wine night is the perfect way to unwind and connect with friends while embracing cozy, winter vibes. If you’re new to the concept or just need some inspiration to host your own, I’ve got you covered. Let’s look into what après-ski is, hosting tips, and everything else you need to create a memorable evening.

What Is Après-Ski?

The term “après-ski” (French for “after ski”) refers to the socializing, relaxing, and celebration that comes after a day on the slopes. It’s rumored to have started in the mid-1800s Norway and was popularized in Europe’s alpine countries in the 1950s. Whatever the origins of this intimate and cheerful tradition, today it’s celebrated globally, from bars to backyards. It’s actually less about skiing itself and more about the camaraderie, indulgence, and wintry atmosphere. Think cozy fireplaces, hearty snacks, shared laughter, and yes—plenty of drinks!

Traditionally, après-ski happens at ski resorts or mountain lodges, but there’s no rule saying you can’t recreate that magic at home. Hosting your own après-ski wine night is a great way to bring people together, whether or not anyone’s been skiing. It’s all about embracing coziness, indulgence, and good company.

Apres ski party guide.

Tips for Hosting at Home

Set the Mood

Atmosphere is everything! You want your guests to feel like they’ve stepped into a chalet. Here’s how to create a warm, inviting vibe:

Lighting: Dim the lights and add candles or string lights for a soft, cozy glow.

Decor: Lay out blankets, faux fur throws, and pillows. Bonus points for a crackling fire (real or virtual).

Music: Create a playlist with a mix of chill acoustic songs, upbeat folk tunes, or even some après-ski classics like French chansons or light jazz.

Dress Code: Cozy and Casual

Encourage guests to embrace the après-ski style. Think chunky knits, wool socks, scarves, and beanies. If they’ve actually been skiing, let them know they’re welcome to stay in their base layers or ski pants.

Stock Up on Essentials

Here’s what you’ll need to pull off a successful wine night:

Wine: A variety of reds, whites, and sparkling options to suit different tastes.

Glassware: Make sure you have enough wine glasses for everyone—stemless glasses work well for a casual vibe.

Snacks: Après-ski is about indulgence, so don’t skimp here (more on the menu below!).

Menu Suggestions

Apres Ski menu ideas

Appetizers

Start with finger foods that pair well with wine:

Charcuterie Board: Include a mix of cheeses (brie, gouda, and blue cheese are great choices), cured meats, crackers, and fresh fruit, masterfully arranged on a charcuterie board.

Warm Dips: Spinach and artichoke dip or baked brie with cranberry sauce are crowd-pleasers.

Savory Pastries: Mini croissants, puff pastry pinwheels, or sausage rolls are easy to eat and delicious.

Main Course

For something heartier, consider these ski-lodge-inspired dishes:

Fondue: Melted cheese served with bread, vegetables, and apples for dipping. It’s interactive and fun!

Raclette: A traditional Swiss dish where cheese is melted and poured over potatoes, pickles, and cured meats.

Chili or Stew: A big pot of chili or beef stew can be served family-style with crusty bread.

Desserts

No après-ski is complete without something sweet:

Chocolate Fondue: Serve with strawberries, marshmallows, and pretzels for dipping.

Mulled Wine Poached Pears: Elegant and wintery.

Cookies & Brownies: Easy and comforting desserts.

Best Après-Ski Wine Cocktails

While wine is the star of the show, offering a few wine-based cocktails adds variety. Here are some ideas:

Mulled Wine

A classic winter warmer. Simmer red wine with orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and a splash of brandy. Serve in mugs for extra coziness.

Sparkling Sangria

Mix sparkling wine with cranberry juice, sliced apples, oranges, and a handful of cranberries. It’s festive and refreshing.

Red Wine Hot Chocolate

Combine red wine with rich, homemade hot chocolate. It might sound unusual, but it’s decadent and perfect for cold nights.

Kir Royale

A simple yet elegant cocktail made by adding a splash of crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) to sparkling wine.

Do’s and Don’ts for Hosting

Do:

Plan Ahead: Prep as much as possible in advance so you’re not stuck in the kitchen during the party.

Provide Non-Alcoholic Options: Sparkling water, hot tea, or a non-alcoholic mulled cider are great choices for guests who don’t drink.

Encourage Mingling: Set up a couple of cozy seating areas to keep the vibe relaxed and social.

Don’t:

Overcomplicate the Menu: Stick to simple, crowd-pleasing dishes. You don’t need to make everything from scratch!

Forget the Music: Silence can kill the mood. Keep your playlist running in the background.

Stress About Perfection: The goal is to have fun. If something doesn’t go as planned, roll with it.

Little Extras

Create a Photo Spot: Set up a small area with props like ski goggles, vintage skis, or a faux fur backdrop for fun pictures.

Hand Warmers or Fuzzy Slippers: When guests arrive, offer these as a little treat to instantly warm them up.

End the Night with a Toast: Pour a round of sparkling wine or your mulled wine and toast to good company and cozy nights.

Hosting an après-ski wine night doesn’t require snow, expensive gear, or even skiing experience. It’s all about celebrating winter, savoring good food and drink, and enjoying time with your favorite people. With these tips and ideas, you’re ready to create a warm, memorable night that’ll leave everyone feeling relaxed and happy.

Cheers!

Published by

Jason McClain

As the proprietor of McClain Cellars, I am thrilled to finally do the one thing I have always loved the most. Create amazing wines to be shared with my family and friends. After spending 25 years in the dot-com space, my wife Sofia and I decided to throw caution to the wind and focus on what is really important: family, friends, faith and freedom. These are the pillars of this winery and why I love everything about it.

McClain Cellars