There’s something undeniably romantic about a winery wedding. The rolling vineyards, the sun setting over barrels of aging wine, the clinking of glasses filled with beautifully aged vintages—it all sets the stage for an unforgettable celebration. But let’s be real, bestie, one of the most important elements of a winery wedding (besides the “I dos”) is the wine itself!
Choosing the perfect wines for your wedding is more than just picking a red and a white off the tasting menu. It’s about curating an experience for your guests, pairing flavors with your menu, and incorporating wine into your special day in ways that feel meaningful and memorable. So, let’s sip and swirl our way through everything you need to know to make wine a highlight of your winery wedding.
Understanding Your Venue’s Wine Selection
Before you start dreaming of specific bottles, get to know your venue’s offerings. Many winery venues require couples to serve their wines exclusively, which means your selection may be limited to what’s on their menu. This can actually be a great thing because their wines are designed to complement the local terroir and cuisine. Take the time to attend a tasting session at your venue, where you can sample different varieties and ask questions about the production process, the history of the vineyard, and any specialty wines they offer.
Additionally, if your venue does allow outside wines, consider working with a sommelier to select wines that will complement the setting and your menu. Whether you’re drawn to a full-bodied red, a crisp white, or a refreshing rosé, understanding your options will help you make informed decisions.
Bestie Tip: If your winery has a signature wine, consider featuring it as a welcome drink. It’s a great way to highlight the venue’s expertise and give your guests a unique experience.
Choosing Wines That Complement Your Menu
Pairing wines with your wedding meal is like creating a love story on the palate. The key is to balance flavors so that neither the food nor the wine overwhelms the other.
Here are some classic pairing ideas:
- Appetizers & Light Starters: Sparkling wine or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc works well with light hors d’oeuvres, cheeses, and seafood starters.
- Seafood or Chicken Dishes: A well-rounded Chardonnay or a bright Pinot Gris can enhance the delicate flavors of fish and poultry dishes.
- Beef or Lamb Entrées: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah pairs beautifully with red meats, providing structure and depth.
- Vegetarian Options: Rosé or Pinot Noir can complement a variety of vegetable-based dishes, enhancing natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Desserts: A late-harvest wine, Riesling, or Port can add a sweet and satisfying finish to the meal.
If possible, schedule a wine and food tasting with your caterer before the big day. This allows you to fine-tune pairings to create a perfectly balanced menu that will leave a lasting impression.
Bestie Tip: Have a mini tasting with your caterer before the big day. You want to make sure the flavors marry as beautifully as you and your partner!
Creating a Signature Wedding Wine
Many wineries offer couples the option to create a custom wine label or even blend their own wedding wine. Imagine serving bottles with your names and wedding date on them! Not only does this add a personal touch to your celebration, but it also makes a fantastic keepsake for you and your guests.
If your venue allows, you might also consider working with a winemaker to create a blend that reflects your personal taste preferences. Whether you prefer a full-bodied red, a crisp white, or something sparkling, crafting a custom wine is a fun and memorable part of wedding planning.
Bestie Tip: Order extra bottles of your custom wedding wine so you can open one on each anniversary. It’s a beautiful way to relive your special day year after year.
Incorporating Wine into Your Ceremony
Beyond just drinking wine, why not make it a part of your ceremony? A wine unity ritual, where you and your partner each pour a different wine into a shared glass and take a sip, symbolizes your union in a unique and meaningful way. Another fun idea? Seal a love letter and a bottle of wine in a box to be opened on your five-year anniversary.
If your officiant is open to the idea, you can even have a special reading about the role of wine in celebrations and relationships. It’s a beautiful way to honor tradition while adding a personal touch to your vows.
Bestie Tip: Choose a wine with great aging potential for your wine box ceremony so it’s even better when you open it years down the line.
Setting Up a Wine Tasting Station
Give your guests the ultimate winery experience with a wine tasting station. Offer small pours of different varietals with tasting notes so guests can sip and savor throughout the evening. You can even incorporate a “tasting passport” where guests can jot down their favorite wines.
Make it interactive by including a pairing station with small bites that complement each wine, such as artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and chocolates.
Bestie Tip: Include a “tasting passport” where guests can jot down their favorite wines. It makes a great conversation starter and a fun keepsake!
Wine-Based Signature Cocktails
Why stop at traditional wine service when you can get creative with wine-based cocktails? Think wine spritzers, sangria, or even a festive Prosecco-based cocktail infused with seasonal fruits and herbs.
Bestie Tip: Work with your bartender to create a wine-based drink that reflects your love story—maybe something inspired by your first date or favorite vacation!
Selecting the Perfect Toasting Wine
The moment you and your partner raise your glasses to toast your new life together is one of the most memorable of the night. Choose a sparkling wine or Champagne that feels celebratory and pairs well with your dessert.
Bestie Tip: Consider adding a splash of fruit puree (like peach or raspberry) to your toasting wine for a fun and colorful twist!
Pairing a Wine with Dessert as a Special Touch
A perfectly paired wine and dessert can elevate the end of your wedding meal to something truly unforgettable. The key is balancing the sweetness of both elements so that neither overpowers the other.
Here are some classic pairings:
- Chocolate-based desserts: A rich Port or a deep, full-bodied Zinfandel complements the richness of chocolate.
- Fruit tarts and citrus-based treats: A crisp Riesling or a late-harvest Gewürztraminer enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness.
- Cheesecake and creamy desserts: A buttery Chardonnay or a Sauternes pairs well with these textures.
- Wedding cake: A classic Champagne or Moscato d’Asti can add an effervescent finish.
Want more ideas on choosing the perfect desserts for your winery wedding? Check out our blog on Choosing the Perfect Desserts for Your Winery Wedding for more sweet inspiration!
Bestie Tip: Ask your bakery and sommelier for pairing suggestions tailored to your specific dessert menu to create a dreamy ending to your reception!
Final Sip: Making Wine the Heart of Your Celebration
At the end of the day, wine is more than just a beverage at a winery wedding—it’s part of the atmosphere, the experience, and the memories you’ll cherish forever. By thoughtfully selecting your wines and incorporating them into your ceremony, reception, and guest experience, you’ll ensure that every sip is as special as the love you’re celebrating. Cheers to a wedding filled with love, laughter, and of course, the perfect glass of wine!