When thinking about wine for a wedding, there are a lot of factors to consider.
What time of year will you be getting married?
Will it be indoors or outdoors?
By the beach or at a winery?
How “featured” will your wine be?
Is there a theme?
When you have to take all these elements into consideration, it’s easy to get a little overwhelmed when choosing your wines. But, don’t worry! Following these few basic guidelines will ensure you find just the right wines to serve at your wedding.
Rain or Shine?
Of all the elements to take into account, weather is likely the most important. A summer wedding has a very different feel than a winter one, and your guests will be craving different refreshments too. When planning a summer wedding, especially in a warmer climate, some crisp and refreshing whites such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling will be just the thing to take the edge off the heat. If you like a little fizz to your whites, you can opt for a sparkling white or even Champagne. If cost is a consideration, Prosecco is an affordable alternative to Champagne and has become very popular at weddings.
For a winter wedding in a cooler climate, opt for some warmer reds that will give your guests a sense of comfort with each sip. Wines such as Cabernet or Syrah are both safe bets for a full taste that is ideally suited to colder weather.
What’s Your Theme?
In choosing your wine, you want to be sure it fits into your overall theme. Are you having an all-white reception? You can go with a clear white wine to match your colors such as a Pinot Grigio or Vinho Verde, or choose to add a pretty pop of color to your tables with a light Rose. Rustic-chic theme? A darker yellow colored white such as Chardonnay that will remind your guests of an old fashioned ale is a fitting choice. When it comes to theme taste is, of course, still important. But also pay attention to the “look” your wine will have against the backdrop of your theme.
How Will Your Wine Be Featured?
Lastly, what role will wine play in your wedding? One trend gaining in popularity is having a wine tasting before food is served at the reception, or even before the wedding itself. If wine is going to be highlighted, a more elaborate tasting menu may be needed (as well a slightly higher budget). Try to choose a good balance of white and reds, with some sweet and then some more crisp options. Here, variety is what’s important so your guests have multiple choices to compare to each other with at least five different wines. If however, wine will only be served with food or as an addition to cocktail options, a selection of only one or two wines will be sufficient. If opting for fewer wines, go with the classics that are the most versatile: a Chardonnay for white or a Pinot Noir for red.
Whatever your theme, the right selection of wine for your wedding will be one more thing for your guests to enjoy, remark on, and remember for years to come.
