Yes, tastings just got a little cozier. And just in time for holiday party planning. Save your gas money, forget the limo and don't bother sending that Evite. A la Pampered Chef, wine companies and sommeliers now bring the wine party to you.

A little or a lot of party -- that part's up to you.The Plutts, Steven and Heather, stuck to the basics. They're wine people; Heather used to work for Gallo, Steven proudly displays his $500 aroma kit, Le Nez du Vin, on the kitchen table. But organizing a wine party -- buying the wines, creating tasting cards, cooking to pair -- much less leading a tasting, was too much work.

"I'm busy. I have three kids. Plus, Scott is on the cutting edge," says Heather Mindel-Plutt.

It's true. Bigelow is one of 1,000 consultants who works for the San Ramon-based WineShop at Home. The company specializes in affordable, limited-production California wines. Your job: Invite friends, and provide the food and glasses. The consultant's job: Bring the knowledge and one of three wine samplers.

ContraCostaTimes.com | 10/04/2006 | HOUSE WINE