Picking wines for your wedding might seem simple – grab a popular white, some bubbly, inform the caterer, and you’re done. However, you must select bottles for larger gatherings that complement activities like toasts, dinners, and celebrations. To help, we consulted Food & Wine executive wine editor Ray Isle for his expert advice on wedding wine selection and the common pitfalls to avoid.
1. Relying On Caterer-Selected Wines
“Caterers often offer basic wines that are overpriced and unremarkable,” says Isle. Additionally, they usually stick to larger, well-known brands. For a more interesting and budget-friendly selection, Isle recommends sourcing wines from a local retailer or wine shop, giving you access to a wider variety of wines.
2. Skipping The Wine Tasting
Before committing to any wine for your big day, host a mini-tasting. “Buy a bottle of each wine you’re considering – white, red, and sparkling – and have a tasting session with your spouse and friends,” suggests Isle. This fun activity allows you to explore options stress-free and discover which wines you genuinely enjoy.
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3. Choosing Only Unique Wines
While you may love unconventional wines like orange or natural, Isle cautions against serving too many esoteric varieties. “You’re catering to a wide range of guests, from friends to older relatives, so steer clear of extreme styles. Stick to crowd-pleasers that are palatable to most,” he advises.
4. Overthinking Food Pairings
Weddings usually feature simple menus, like chicken or fish, so there’s no need to stress over perfect wine pairings. “You’re not dealing with difficult-to-pair foods, so opt for a versatile wine like a dry Riesling,” suggests Isle. Focus on wines that complement various dishes without overcomplicating things.
5. Offering Variety For Different Moments
Isle recommends serving different wines at various event stages if you want to go the extra mile. “Serve a lighter wine during the cocktail reception and switch to a more food-friendly wine for dinner,” he says. This adds variety without overcomplicating your selection.
6. Underestimating Quantities
Always buy more wine than you think you’ll need. “It’s better to have leftovers than to run out,” advises Isle. Check with your venue about taking home any extra bottles, which can be enjoyed on future anniversaries.
7. Splurging On Specific Moments
While weddings are special occasions, there’s no need to overspend on particular moments. “Don’t blow your budget on expensive wines for just a Champagne toast. It’s better to have good-quality wines throughout the event than one extravagant bottle and lower-quality options elsewhere,” says Isle.
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8. Serving Special Wines Only To a Select Few
While it may be tempting to splurge on a few exclusive bottles for the wedding party, it can be considered exclusionary. “It’s a matter of etiquette,” says Isle. “Serving fancier wines to just a few guests can feel awkward and elitist,” Isle suggests saving those special wines for private moments between the bride and groom.
9. Consider Wine As a Wedding Gift
If you’re attending a wedding for wine enthusiasts, gifting a bottle from their wedding year can be meaningful. Isle shares his experience: “For a friend’s wedding, I bought a Pinot Noir from the year of her wedding, which will be a gift she can cherish for years.”
10. Don’t Overthink The Wine
Wine is just one part of the celebration. “Your guests are more focused on the marriage than the wine,” says Isle. “It’s not the time to break out fancy wines for admiration; instead, focus on ensuring everyone is enjoying the celebration.”
By following these expert tips from Ray Isle, you can ensure that your wedding wine choices enhance the event without any unnecessary stress.
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