When it comes to planning a wedding, every detail counts. From the beautiful venue to the delicious food, every element plays an important role in creating an unforgettable experience. One aspect that often takes centre stage is the selection of wines. With so many options available, choosing the perfect wines for your wedding can be a delightful yet daunting task. We are here to help you navigate the world of wine, ensuring that your special day is accompanied by the best possible wine experience.
Start every planning with a budget
Establishing a budget for your wedding wines is vital. Consider the number of guests and how much wine you will need to cater to their preferences. Most wedding guests consume half to one bottle of wine on average, so make sure you have some extra bottles on hand just in case. Working closely with your wedding planner or caterer can help you estimate the quantity required and ensure you stay on budget.
In addition, exploring different wine regions and grape varieties can help you find affordable options without sacrificing quality. Consider lesser-known wine regions, smaller-scale producers, or wines produced locally instead of sticking to the classic, famous wine regions and producers to get better value for money. Wine-producing regions such as central and southern Italy, southern France, and smaller wine-producing countries typically offer high-quality wines at lower prices.
Remember that the goal is to provide a memorable experience for your guests. On a wedding day, good, delicious wines are far more important than famous brand names.
Bubbles are indispensable, diverse options are welcome
For a celebration like a wedding, sparkling wines bring an air of celebration and can be served as a welcome drink or for toasting. Opt for a classic Champagne or explore other sparkling wines like Prosecco or Cava for a more budget-friendly option. Offering a diverse range of wine options ensures that guests with varying preferences will be well-catered to. Include at least one white and one red for guests of different tastes and to match with various meals and dishes.
When selecting wines, consider more than just popular varietals such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Instead, base your decision on wine styles. An oaked Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley may have strong, distinctive flavours that people have polarised opinions about. Some people find Cabernet Sauvignon to be too tannic. Wines that are fruit-forward, approachable, not overly acidic or tannin-heavy, and appeal to a wide range of tastes are a safer bet.
Rosé wines should not be overlooked. Rosé wines, with their wonderful pink hues, are ideal for adding some romantic elements to a wedding. Furthermore, they are versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of dishes. From light and refreshing Provence rosés to fruit-forward options from New World regions, there are numerous choices to suit different palates.
Pairing the wine with the menu, and the season
Pairing the wine with the menu and the season is an essential aspect of wedding wine selection. To select wines that go well with and improve the dining experience, take into account the flavors and ingredients on your menu. A bold, robust Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz, for instance, goes well with hearty, rich dishes, while a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay marries exquisitely with lighter fish or vegetarian dishes.
Moreover, consider the time of year that your wedding will be held. When the weather is warmer, choose a lighter-bodied Pinot Grigio or Gamay. These wines are refreshing and easy to drink, and they can help to keep your guests fresh on a hot day. When the weather is cooler, full-bodied whites and reds like Viognier or Malbec can provide warmth and depth to the event.
If you are not sure, go with those all-purpose wines that go well with virtually everything. Without having a strong tannin structure or tart acidity, a juicy, round Merlot, or a medium-bodied Chianti can pair with poultry, roasted vegetable, pork, beef and hearty stews. A mildly aromatic Pinot Gris goes well with seafood, white meats, and even sausages. You may provide your guests with a pleasant and unforgettable dining experience by thoughtfully coordinating the wines with the food and taking the season into account.
Go with wines that are easy to serve
Making sure the catering staff and your guests have a simple and hassle-free experience when choosing wines for your wedding is crucial. Screw-cap wines are one advantageous option. Screw caps, as opposed to conventional cork closures, do not require corkscrews, lowering the possibility of cork taint and ensuring that every bottle is of uniform quality. Screw caps are also easier to open, which can speed up service and reduce the risk of spills.
Furthermore, consider wines that do not require decanting. Decanting can be time-consuming and often requires additional equipment. By choosing wines that are ready to be enjoyed straight from the bottle, you can eliminate the need for decanting, allowing your guests to savour their wine without any unnecessary delays. These deliberate decisions will support a smooth and efficient wine service, raising the quality of your wedding celebration as a whole.
Choosing the best wedding wine
If you feel overwhelmed by the vast world of wine or require more guidance, do not hesitate to consult professionals. Contact local wine merchants, sommeliers, or even wedding planners with expertise in wine selection. They can assist you in choosing wines that align with your taste preferences, menu, and budget. Additionally, many wine stores offer tasting sessions, allowing you to sample different wines before making your final decisions.
If you’re ready to explore some perfectly curated bottles for special events, browse our best wedding wines in our online store, here. We also offer personalised recommendations, so please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions.
