Wine Etiquette: How To Choose A Bottle For A Dinner Party

Bringing a bottle of wine to a dinner party is a classic gesture of gratitude and good taste. However it’s not always easy to know what’s appropriate, or if your choice might clash with the host’s menu. At our wine shop in High Wycombe, we love to help our customers (and their hosts) feel 100 per cent happy and confident with their choice.

Here’s our guide to wine etiquette that will help you make the right impression every time.

Is the wine for a gift or for the meal?

This is the golden rule: are you giving the wine as a host gift (something they can enjoy later), or are you hoping it’ll be opened with the meal? If you’re unsure, it’s usually best to bring something the host can enjoy after the party. This takes the pressure off them feeling as though they need to open it immediately.

Choosing a table wine 

If the wine is meant to be served during the evening, consider the meal—but don’t worry too much if you don’t know the menu. Pick a good all-rounder, such as a light or medium-bodied red that will pair well with poultry, pork, and many vegetarian dishes. The wine should be versatile and light enough to appeal to a range of palates.

If you still feel unsure, opt for a sparkling wine such as prosecco or crémant (or Champagne if your budget allows). This will be suitably light and festive, and can be drunk as an aperitif if required. Most sparkling wines pair well with almost all types of food. If you want a dessert or after-dinner wine, a half-bottle of Sauternes or Port can be a thoughtful touch.

Another good tip is to focus on the mood of the occasion rather than just the food: is it a celebration, or a more informal get-together? If you aren’t familiar with the hosts’ taste, avoid overly niche or trendy wines and opt for a more classic choice, such as a good quality Beaujolais or Sauvignon. 

Choosing a gift for the host

When giving wine purely as a gift, go for something that feels considered. It doesn’t need to be expensive, but try to show that you’ve put some thought into the selection. For example, you could opt for a bottle from a small producer they haven’t heard of; a natural or organic wine if they’re health-conscious, or a favourite bottle you’ve enjoyed and want to share.

Take some care with the presentation as well, such as a handwritten note, or a decorative bottle carrier or wrapping to add a personal touch.

If you know that the host loves wine and has good taste, don’t bring cheap supermarket wine, as it may feel impersonal. Another obvious point is to find out if your host drinks alcohol: if not, a better choice would be premium grade olive oil, flowers, or a non-alcoholic aperitif.