We Asked A Sommelier What Wines To Bring To A Party (And Which To Avoid) - Tasting Table

"Planning wine options for a party can be a bit overwhelming if you don't know where to start. Even if you narrow it down to a selection of bottles, there's an endless variety on store shelves, ranging widely in price, quality, and enjoyment. Some wines might be prestigious and well-admired by oenophiles, but fall flat at a party with less wine-savvy folks. Nevertheless, if you include a few diverse options, you'll likely please all your guests without blasting through your budget."

"To guide you through your next party supply run and avoid potential pitfalls, we spoke to Canadian sommelier and wine writer Natalie MacLean. MacLean is a published author, hosts a weekly podcast, and regularly updates her website with wine reviews, allowing wine lovers to expand their knowledge in various ways. With her guidance, you'll soon be on your way to creating an exciting and varied wine list that will keep your guests satisfied. Plus, she will almost certainly inspire you to learn more about wine."

"Although wine can easily cause your budget to soar, it doesn't have to. Natalie MacLean compares it to "stocking a wardrobe," elaborating, "You don't need designer labels for every piece, but you do need clothes that fit the occasion." "Spend smart, not more: Anchor your table with one or two special bottles, then balance them with affordable gems from lesser-known regions," MacLean advises."

Planning wine options for a party can be overwhelming because store shelves offer endless variety in price, quality, and style. Some prestigious wines may not appeal to less wine‑savvy guests, so include a few diverse options to satisfy different tastes without breaking the budget. Anchor the selection with one or two special bottles and balance them with affordable gems from lesser‑known regions. Look for bulk‑buy discounts and prioritize quality over prestige. Match wines to the occasion by choosing bottles that fit the event’s formality and menu. Offering variety increases the chance that most guests will enjoy at least one option.

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