How to plan the perfect wedding wine list
In Short:
Planning a wedding can be complicated. But the drinks for your special day shouldn't have to be. Here’s everything you need to know when planning the perfect wedding drinks list - including wine, beer and soft drinks.
After you’ve enjoyed a few bottles to celebrate your engagement, it's time to think about what to drink on the day itself. It may seem overwhelming but don’t worry – we’ll take you through how to plan the perfect wedding drinks in a few easy steps.
1. Set your budget
It’s important to know how much you want to spend on drinks – there are fantastic choices at every price point, but you’ll find it much easier to plan if you know how much you’ve got to play with in total.
2. How much do you need to order?
If you’ve got a total quantity of guests and know roughly how much you think they’ll drink (on average) then just head over to our handy drinks calculator and we’ll do the work for you. With our sale or return service you can order without worrying – or order a few extra cases to enjoy after your wedding, to continue your celebrations.
3. Plan your drink options
Start by thinking about the day: are you having a formal wedding with drinks being served, or a relaxed evening party with a help-yourself bar? Depending on your preferences, you might want to consider a mix of the following:
Welcome drinks - Sparkling Wine
For a wedding drinks reception, you’ll probably need a sparkling wine that you can pour in reasonable volume – Prosecco, Cava or Crémant are the perfect options. Cava and Crémant are made in the same way as Champagne, and have slightly richer, rounder flavours, while Prosecco tends to be lighter and fresher.
You might also want to consider a cocktail for a refreshing wedding drink – keep it classic with an Aperol Spritz, or try elderflower liqueur, Prosecco and sparkling water for a zesty summer flavour.
Food Pairings - White, Rosé and Red Wine
Whether it’s a formal wedding breakfast or a hog roast lunch, you need the right bottles to complement your first meal as a married couple. Pick wines that are likely to suit a range of tastes; good white options could be Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire, a South African Chenin Blanc, or a Southern Italian white. If you’re having food that would match with a richer white (like chicken or pork) then try a Chardonnay – but avoid anything with too much oak.
Keep the red wine medium-bodied so it can be enjoyed throughout the event – a Côtes du Rhône or Beaujolais would be perfect, or look for a juicy Chilean Pinot Noir. You could also go for a Malbec to match with darker red meat, or if you’re having an evening wedding or a heartier dish for your meal.
In spring or summer, why not add a rosé? A Côtes de Provence or Rioja rosé will be a great choice to match with hors d'oeuvres and summery dishes, or to enjoy throughout the wedding party.
Beer
If you or any of your guests prefer beer, choose one to match your wedding food. For this, you’ll probably want something with a bit more body like a Pale Ale or a full-flavoured hoppy lager. For a reception or drinking later on, a crisp, fresh lager will be perfect. And don’t forget - alcohol-free beers are a great way to provide guests with a delicious non-alcoholic option.
For the toasts - Champagne
This is your opportunity to open a few bottles of something really exceptional so everyone can raise a glass to your nuptials. If you already have a favourite Champagne house, why not try their vintage cuvée or maybe a luxurious rosé Champagne? If not, it’s a great excuse to have a tasting with your partner before the wedding so you can choose something you both love for your memorable day.
Cocktails & Apéritifs
Cocktails and apéritifs are the wonderfully versatile drinks for those who enjoy spirits, want to sip something refreshing before the main wedding meal, or are looking for something a little lighter in alcohol to enjoy during the big day. Classic cocktails like Aperol Spritz or a Pimm’s Cup are perfect for summer weddings, or spice up the classic G&T with one of our exciting pink gins for any time of the year. Pick up our Perfect Serve recipes in store for more wedding cocktail inspiration!
Soft drinks
Don’t forget some tempting soft drinks to make sure guests can keep themselves refreshed during a longer wedding, or for anyone who’s not drinking. There are many delicious 0% beers and spirits now which offer a more grown-up option. Stock up on premium tonics or flavoured sparkling water, and provide ice and garnishes so everyone can enjoy a drink that feels special. Or for something really simple, it’s easy to upgrade jugs of mineral water with cucumber and fresh mint.
