Wine 101 for Events
Planning the perfect corporate event or retreat is all about those thoughtful details that make every moment memorable. When it comes to adding a touch of elegance, a well-curated wine selection will enhance a special occasion and impress your guests.
At Amy O'Keefe Events, we know that choosing the right wines for your event can elevate the entire experience. Here's our guide to Wine 101 and making the perfect wine choices for your next gathering:
1. Understand Your Audience
The first step in selecting wines for your event is understanding your audience. Are you catering to wine connoisseurs or wine novices? The key is to find a balance that pleases the majority. For a large and diverse group, opt for crowd pleasers and medium bodied wines like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for white and a Cabernet Franc for red. For a smaller group of wine lovers, you can be a bit more adventurous. Involve your host with the selection and consult with the experts: a sommelier if you’re hosting at a restaurant and a great local wine store owner if you’re entertaining at home. Describe your menu, budget, and general preferences and they can offer some more unique wines that your guests will appreciate.
2. Complement Your Menu
The flavors of the wines should harmonize with your food menu. A light Chardonnay beautifully complements seafood or chicken dishes, while a robust Cabernet Sauvignon pairs wonderfully with red meat. Choose lighter bodied wines for cocktail hour and first courses, moving to medium to full bodied wines for the main course. Last but not least, consider adding a dessert wine or digestif to close out the evening.
3. Don't Forget Sparkling Wine
A touch of bubbly is always a great idea for toasts and celebrations. Champagne is often considered the “best” sparkling, made from the Champagne region in France. However, Prosecco, Cava, or Sparkling Rosé are also excellent choices. You can even add a non-alcoholic sparkling cider for those guests who do not drink but want to celebrate.
4. Local and Seasonal Options
If your event has a location theme or specific cuisine, consider offering wines from that region. It adds an extra layer of authenticity to your event and allows you to introduce some less familiar wines to your guests. We love a White Burgundy from France and Nebbiolo from Italy. Even New York State has some lovely wines, from Finger Lakes Riesling to Long Island Merlot. Also, think about the season. A dry Rosé is perfect for a summer event, while a rich Syrah suits a cozy winter gathering.
5. Wine Education
Lastly, consider adding an educational element to your wine service. If you have wine enthusiasts in attendance, they might appreciate a short introduction to the wines being served or a blind tasting. It's a great conversation starter and can turn sipping into an experience. A special bottle of wine makes a nice parting gift as well.
When it comes to wine selection, Amy O'Keefe Events leaves no detail unattended. We're here to ensure that every aspect of your event, from the venue to the wine list, reflects your vision and leaves a lasting impression on your guests.
So, raise your glass to the perfect wine choices, creating moments of connection, and celebrating your corporate events in style.
Have questions about choosing the right wines for your event? Let's connect and make your next gathering extraordinary. Cheers to impeccable wine selections and unforgettable events!
