How to Select Wedding Wine and Determine the Right Amount for Your Guests

Planning a wedding involves numerous decisions, but selecting the perfect wine shouldn’t be one of the stressful ones. At Sequoia Grove Winery, nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, we understand the importance of serving exquisite wines that complement your special day. Whether you’re hosting a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to choose wedding wine and determine the right quantity per guest.

How to Select Wedding Wines for Your Big Day

Consider Your Menu

The first step in choosing the right wine is to consider your menu. The wines you select should enhance the flavors of the dishes being served. Here are some general pairing guidelines:

  1. Red Wines: Versatility is key when selecting a wedding wine. Sequoia Grove Winery’s Cabernet Sauvignon offers a robust and adaptable profile that makes it ideal for various dishes and occasions. Our Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a popular choice among wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Its familiar and approachable flavor profile makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether your guests are seasoned wine connoisseurs or occasional wine drinkers, it will surely be appreciated by all.
  2. White Wines: Perfect for lighter fare such as chicken, fish, and vegetarian dishes. The Napa Valley Chardonnay is a crowd-pleaser with its balanced acidity and vibrant fruit notes.
  3. Sparkling Wines: Great for toasts and versatile enough to complement a variety of appetizers and desserts. Consider a Blanc de Blancs is an elegant choice for celebrating special moments. Our favorite sparkling house is Domaine Carneros.

Reflect Your Personal Taste

While it’s important to consider your guests, remember it’s your special day. Choose wines that you and your partner enjoy. At Sequoia Grove Winery, we offer tasting experiences to help you find the perfect selections that reflect your taste and style.

Offer Variety

A diverse wine selection ensures there’s something for everyone. We recommend offering at least one red, one white, and a sparkling option. This variety caters to different preferences and adds a touch of sophistication to your wedding.

Seasonal Considerations

Consider the season of your wedding. Light, crisp wines like Sauvignon Blanc are refreshing for summer weddings, while full-bodied reds like Merlot are cozy for fall or winter celebrations.

 Leverage Local Expertise

Our experienced team at Sequoia Grove Winery is here to assist you. We can provide recommendations based on our extensive knowledge of wine and food pairings, ensuring your selections are perfectly suited for your event.

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How Many Bottles of Wine Per Guest?

Determining the right amount of wine can be tricky, but a good rule of thumb is to plan for half a bottle of wine per guest for a four-hour reception. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

 Estimate the Number of Guests

First, confirm your guest count. This number will be the foundation for calculating your wine needs.

Calculate Based on Reception Duration

Four-hour Reception: Plan for about half a bottle per guest. This accounts for roughly two glasses of wine per person.

Longer Receptions: For receptions extending beyond four hours, consider increasing to three glasses per guest, or about ¾ of a bottle each.

Consider Wine Preferences

Take into account your guests’ preferences. If you know your crowd enjoys wine, it’s better to have a bit extra. It’s always safer to have a surplus than to run out.

 Champagne for Toasts

If you’re serving champagne or sparkling wine for toasts, plan for one bottle per eight guests. This typically allows for a modest pour for each guest to participate in the celebration.

 Consult with Our Team

At Sequoia Grove Winery, we’re happy to assist in calculating the right amount of wine for your event. Our team can provide personalized advice based on your guest list and wedding plans.

Why Choose Sequoia Grove Winery?

Choosing Sequoia Grove Winery for your wedding wines means selecting quality, expertise, and a touch of Napa Valley elegance. Our wines are crafted with care and precision, ensuring each bottle brings joy and sophistication to your celebration. Plus, our picturesque winery offers the perfect backdrop to relax before your big day!

Please note, our property does not operate as a wedding venue, but we’d love to host a day or evening tasting or wine and food pairing experience for your guests! Contact our Special Events Manager, Maria Bartolome, for more information. She can be reached via email at [email protected] or by phone (707) 681-7788.

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All images courtesy of Dakota Deanne Photography