Types of Wine to Serve at Parties

When serving wine at a party, there are no absolutes, but rather traditional pairings that have been suggested over time by seasoned wine wine connoisseurs. A general rule of thumb is to contrast the flavor between the wine and the food being served at the party. 

Wine Gatherings

Wine Party

If the type of party that is being thrown is an actual wine party, as in a wine tasting event, then obviously there should be a variety of wines to choose from. The typical menu for a wine party consists of cheese and crackers. Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert are the most popular because these types of cheeses are great for spreading on crackers. Another reason is because these two cheese types are compatible with a variety of wines such as sherry, riesling chardonnay and pinot gris.

Casual Party

For casual parties and get togethers, there is usually a laid back motif or theme which carries over into the type of food that is served. Appetizers such as vegetable trays, dried fruit, cured meats, cubed cheese and sausage trays, and freshly baked bread are typical foods included at a casual party. Wines that can be paired with these types of foods include chablis, sauternes and zinfandel. 

Elegant Party

The foods served at an elegant dinner party will vary depending on the host and the guests. Some of the common foods served at elegant dinner parties include pasta dishes, oysters, and foods consisting of steak, poultry or fish. Wines that can be paired with pasta dishes include chardonnay, chianti and champagne. For meals with steak poultry or fish, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadet and Anjou are all great choices.

Wine Characteristics

Intense Wines: Intense wines have a very potent taste. These types of wines are best served with robust meals at a party. For instance, filet mignon should be served with syrah or merlot. This type of pairing prevents the wine from overpowering the meal. 

Light Wines: Gamay, sémillon and trebbiano are all examples of light wines that can be served at a party with light desserts likes crepes or bombes. 

Aromatic Wines: Some choose to serve aromatic wines at a party to set a certain mood or ambiance. Bodegas, gewurztraminer and gentil are all wines that carry a sweet floral aroma.