A bride’s guide to wedding wines

Sponsored article from Wineandbarrels.

Planning a wedding involves countless decisions, from choosing the perfect dress to selecting the ideal venue. Among these choices, selecting the right wines for your special day is an essential yet often overlooked detail. The right wine can elevate your wedding experience, complement your menu, and delight your guests. In this guide, we here at Wineandbarrels will help you choose the perfect wines for each part of your celebration, ensuring a memorable and elegant event.

Sparkling welcome

As your guests arrive, greet them with a refreshing glass of sparkling wine. This bubbly beverage sets a festive tone and encourages mingling as your guests await the ceremony. Champagne is a classic choice, but consider alternatives like Prosecco or Cava for a unique twist. These sparkling wines offer a variety of flavours and price points, allowing you to find the perfect match for your wedding theme and budget.

White wine for the first course

When it comes to the first course, typically a salad or a light appetiser, a crisp white wine is an excellent choice. Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are popular options. Sauvignon Blanc is known for its vibrant acidity and fresh flavours, making it ideal for pairing with salads and seafood. Chardonnay, on the other hand, offers a richer, more buttery taste that complements creamier dishes. Both wines are versatile and widely appreciated, ensuring your guests enjoy their meal from the start.

Red wine for the main course

The main course often features heartier fare, such as roasted meats or rich pasta dishes, which call for a robust red wine. Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir are two exceptional choices. Cabernet Sauvignon, with its bold tannins and deep flavours of blackcurrant and oak, pairs beautifully with beef and lamb. Pinot Noir, lighter and more delicate, is perfect for poultry and vegetarian dishes. Offering both options allows your guests to choose a wine that suits their palate and their entrée.

Dessert wine delights

As the meal winds down and dessert is served, a sweet wine can enhance the final course. Consider serving an ice wine (Eiswein), which is known for its concentrated sweetness and balanced acidity. This luxurious wine pairs wonderfully with fruity desserts, cheese plates, and pastries. Its unique production process, where grapes are harvested while frozen, results in a distinctive and memorable flavour that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

After-dinner treats

When the dessert plates have been cleared and chocolates are brought out, it’s time to serve a rich, fortified wine. Port or a fine Sherry are excellent choices for this stage of the evening. These wines are known for their depth and complexity, providing a perfect end to the dining experience. They pair wonderfully with dark chocolates and can also be enjoyed on their own, offering a warm, comforting note to conclude your wedding meal.

Storing your wedding wines

Proper wine storage is crucial to maintaining the quality of your selected bottles. Investing in a good wine rack can keep your wines organised and at the optimal temperature. Wineandbarrels offers a variety of elegant and functional wine racks that suit different styles and spaces. Whether you need a small rack for a few bottles or a larger one to accommodate your entire selection, you'll find a range of options at Wineandbarrels. Having a stylish wine rack not only preserves your wine but also adds a touch of sophistication, making it a worthy addition to your wedding planning checklist.

Choosing the right wines for your wedding can seem daunting, but with careful consideration and a bit of guidance, you can create a delightful and memorable experience for your guests. From the first toast to the final sip, the perfect wines will ensure your special day is celebrated in style.