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5 Ways to Pick the Right Wine for Your Wedding
Wedding planning is one of the most fun—and stressful—things you’ll ever do, with so many details to think about. One of the biggest parts of the celebration is the food and drink, and wine. Picking the right wine for your wedding can seem overwhelming, but with a little planning, you can make sure your guests enjoy every sip on your big day.
Here are 5 tips to help you pick the right wine for your wedding:
1. Red or White?
One of the first decisions you’ll have to make is whether to serve red or white wine (or both!). This depends on your wedding theme, the season and personal preference. A good rule of thumb is to offer a Pinot Grigio for white wine lovers and a Pinot Noir for red wine lovers. By offering both you’ll cater to all tastes and make sure all your guests can drink a wine they love.
2. How much to spend on wedding wine
How much you spend on wine for your wedding will depend on the number of guests. As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended that half a bottle of wine be supplied per guest. So if you have 100 guests, plan for 50 bottles. Keep your budget in mind but don’t feel you have to break the bank. Many affordable wines are just as good and will please your guests just as much as the expensive ones.
3. Buying in bulk
To save time and money consider buying your wedding wine in bulk. Many wine merchants offer discounts for bulk purchases and buying by the case will save you even more. Whether you’re buying from a local wine shop or online make sure to ask about bulk discounts. This way you’ll have enough wine for the day without breaking the bank.
4. Wine Region
When choosing your wedding wine it’s easy to go with the well known regions like France or Italy. But consider the lesser known regions like Chile, Argentina or Australia. They offer equally good wines at a lower price point. Wines from these regions have unique flavors and great value so they’re a great option for your wedding.
5. Add a personal touch
For an extra special experience many couples are adding a personal touch to their wedding wine. You could choose a wine that holds meaning to you, like the wine you shared on your first date or even customise the wine labels to match your wedding theme. Personalised wine labels with your names or wedding date will add a special unique touch that your guests will love.
FAQs: Wedding Wine
- How much wine should I buy?
Half a bottle per guest. For a bigger event buy in bulk to save. - Should I serve red and white wine?
Yes! Serving both red and white will cater to all tastes. A Pinot Grigio for white wine and a Pinot Noir for red wine are safe bets. - Can I buy in bulk?
Yes! Buying in bulk will save you money and many wine merchants offer discounts for bulk purchases. It’s a great way to stay within budget. - Best wines for a budget wedding?
Wines from Chile, Argentina and Australia offer great value without compromising on quality. Look for affordable and tasty. - How can I personalise my wedding wine?
You can personalise your wedding wine by choosing a special vintage or customising the wine labels to match your wedding theme. Many companies offer custom label printing for wine bottles. - Can I match the wine to my wedding theme?
Yes! Many couples choose wines that match their wedding theme – for example light white wines for a summer garden wedding or bold reds for a winter wedding. - What wines to toast with at the reception?
Champagne or sparkling wine is the traditional choice for toasts but you can also opt for Prosecco or Cava for a more budget friendly option. - Should I hire a sommelier?
If you have a big guest list or want wine pairings for your meal, hiring a sommelier is a good idea. They can help you choose wines that match your menu and the dining experience. - How do I store the wine?
If you’re buying in advance make sure to store it in a cool dark place to preserve the quality. Avoid areas with temperature fluctuations or direct sunlight. - Can I offer something else for those who don’t like wine?
Yes. Beer, cocktails or non-alcoholic options.
