Handpicked Items for a Perfect Picnic

February is almost over, and spring is in the air here in the Livermore valley. The gorgeous weather is whispering to us to come outside and drink in the sunshine and the beauty. We think the best way to answer that call is with a delicious picnic. Even if you don't live near an open meadow or park, this season might just call for an adventure to your backyard! With current health regulations, we're all growing more accustomed to dining al fresco, so we think it's high time to kick back on a checkered blanket and enjoy a glass of wine. Just in case the winter months have you out of practice, we've put together a list of ideas to help create a perfect picnic. 

Picnic Blanket 

A high-quality blanket or tablecloth is a must-have! Whether you choose classic checkers or your favorite pattern, make sure you've got the right one for the job. We recommend blankets with a water-repellent base that pack up nicely. If your picnic location has tables, a lightweight tablecloth is perfect for picnicking in style!

Picnic Basket 

Depending on your ideal picnic meal, the sky's the limit when it comes to the different picnic baskets available. We like a classic wooden-and-wicker basket with a hinged top, but we appreciate modern insulated baskets as well. The most important feature is the ability to hold all of its precious cargo! 

Bluetooth Speaker

With any dining experience, music offers a perfect touch of enhancement. No matter the mood you're going for, there's an album for that, from classical to classic rock. Whether you're feeling romantic, relaxed, or nostalgic, a good speaker will provide an ambience you'll love.

Reusable Picnic Dishes

We like to reduce waste in every way we can, and reusable dishes are better for the environment than disposable. If you want to limit the weight in your basket, we recommend lightweight & chic wooden plates, cutting boards, and flatware. 

Wine Accessories 

If you'd like to enjoy a bottle while you're out (and really, who doesn't), don't forget to bring the needed extras. We recommend at least some sturdy patio glassware and a trusty corkscrew. You can even invest in a wine and cheese caddy if you’d like to elevate the experience even further!

Ice Packs 

No one wants a spoiled potato salad, so make sure you have all you need to keep you perishable items safe and chilly! We recommend reusable ice packs that limit food waste and increase sustainability.

Cleanup Essentials

It's always the best policy to leave your picnic spot better than you found it, whether it's a park or your yard. A rubbish bag, sanitary wipes, and a few tea towels can go a long way!

Favorite Snacks and Sides

If you're armed with a few resealable containers, the options for side dishes are endless. Pack anything from perfect pasta salad to rainbow coleslaw to make your picnic properly gourmet!

Something Sweet 

What’s a meal without dessert? Incomplete! For picnicking, we recommend fun cookies, like pecan sandies or strawberry lemonade cookies. If you want to try something new, look for a spin on classic French Travel Cakes, which are perfect for an everyday adventure!

Your Favorite Wine

With weather this beautiful, we're looking forward to opening some of our warm-weather favorites. Our Grapeful Rosé and Sauvignon Blanc are must-haves when the sun is out, as long as we've got an insulated wine cooler!

We hope we've inspired you to get out and enjoy the sunshine when you can!
If you bring Ruby Hill wines along with you, don't forget to tag us on social media, @rubyhillwines.