How to choose the right wine for your wedding
Par Pépites de vin
The choice of wine is a key stage in the organization of a wedding. After all, what would a wedding dinner be without the delicious beverages that accompany it? We’ve put together our top tips for successful wine selection.
However, if you still have questions after reading this article, don’t hesitate to contact one of our sommeliers, who will be delighted to answer all your questions!
Article summary
Which red wine to choose for a wedding?
The choice of red wine will of course depend on the menu proposed for your wedding.
For a red meat dish, it’s advisable to opt for a rather powerful, tannic red wine to accompany the strength of the meat. Bordeaux wines such as Château Fleur Haut Gaussens come to mind, as do Rhône Valley wines such as Domaine Gramiller’s Rasteau, whose spiciness will enhance the meat. Conversely, to accompany white meat dishes such as poultry or turkey, it’s wiser to choose a light, fruity wine with little tannin, so as not to overwhelm the delicacy of the dish. A Burgundy Pinot Noir, for example, or a pretty Beaujolais wine such as Domaine de la Creuze Noir would be an excellent match.
Which white wine to choose for a wedding?
White wine is ideal with fish dishes and light starters. If you opt for a fish-based menu, choose dry white wines: a Chablis or a Sancerre are good examples. Their minerality and freshness go well with the salty taste of the dish. If the fish is accompanied by a sauce, you can also consider a white wine with more roundness and fullness. White wines from southern Burgundy (such as Côte de Beaune or Rully) are a good match for the creaminess of the sauce.
Which wine to choose for the vin d'honneur or cocktail reception?
The vin d’honneur (or cocktail reception) is a convivial and festive moment during which guests can enjoy amuse-bouches and various toasted starters. For this part of your wedding, go for bubbles!
Champagnes, crémants or even proseccos are perfect accompaniments for festive moments, and will go well with most amuse-bouches. However, make sure they’re not too sweet to spoil your guests’ taste buds before the meal. You can also suggest a dry white wine or a light, fresh rosé such as Domaine Sainte Philomène’s Cuvée Philippine.
What wine to serve with a cold buffet?
To accompany a cold buffet, we recommend serving dry, fruity white wines, light, fresh rosés, champagnes or sparkling wines. Red wines can also be served, but we recommend light, fruity wines such as Beaujolais, Loire or Burgundy.
Our 4 tips for choosing the right wine for your wedding
Depending on the time of year
The choice of wine can be influenced by the season in which your wedding takes place. In winter, we recommend full-bodied, tannic wines to accompany warm, comforting dishes. In summer, white and rosé wines are better suited to light, fresh dishes.
According to theme
If you’ve chosen a theme for your wedding, it’s a good idea to choose a wine that suits that theme. For example, if you’ve chosen a country theme, a dry, fruity white wine like a Petit Chablis would be perfect.
Depending on the region
You can also honor the region where you’re getting married by proposing local wines! If you’re getting married in the South of France, a light, fruity rosé like a Côtes de Provence will be perfect for Mediterranean dishes. If you’re getting married in the Bordeaux region, a full-bodied, tannic red wine will be better suited to accompany a dish typical of the region, such as duck breast.
Taste before you choose!
Finally, it’s important to taste the wines before making your final choice. You can contact one of our sommeliers for an opportunity to taste the wines in a 100% free tasting session (by video or in person, depending on your location). This will enable you to determine which wines are best suited to your menu and tastes.
With these tips, you’re ready to choose the perfect wines for your wedding!
How much wine to choose for your wedding?
Are you planning your wedding and wondering how many bottles of wine you’ll need to satisfy your guests? In this article, we’ll give you some practical advice on how to calculate the ideal amount of wine according to different criteria, so that your celebration will be memorable and you’ll want for nothing.
- Vin d’honneur: 1 bottle of champagne for 2 or 3 guests, depending on their personalities.
- Wedding dinner: 1 bottle of wine for 3 people (red, white or a mix).
- Wedding dessert: 1 bottle of champagne or white wine for 6 people.
Bonus for a memorable evening: 1 bottle for 10 people, served around 3 a.m.