We are attending a party tomorrow and I was curious how people go about choosing wine to bring to an event and have no knowledge of the likes or dislikes of the hosts or the others attending. I know more than average about wine and have a good idea about what I like…but I found another blog that had some failsafe guidlines to make sure your selection is a success.
“When asked to someone’s home for an event where food and drinks will be served, bringing a bottle of wine is considered polite. But if you’re viticulturally challenged that can be difficult. If you walk into a wine store you will get talked into something and your host will want to know how you came to choose this wine. “Duh?” is not a great way enter a party.
The very best place to start is at a large chain grocer or drug store like Safeway, QVC, Jewel or Longs. They have tremendous buying power and wrangle the winery prices down to provide a hefty profit for themselves and a good deal for you. Walk into the wine aisle and go directly to the red wines unless it’s summertime, unseasonably warm or you know the host hates red wine. Red is in style currently as it’s health benefit when consumed in moderation are regular talk show topic. Look for “red table wine”. Many top producers make one, although it was once considered in poor taste like screw tops. These wines can be very pricey, but most fall between $7-15 in the U.S. They have a blend of different grapes and are made to be consumed with or without food. They are easy to drink and even white wine drinkers may take a shine to them.
If you host is a red wine hater, don’t try the same trick with white table wine. You will not make a friend. The U.S. market does not make this particular wine at an affordable price point. Most white wine drinkers will enjoy pinot grigio. There are a number of brands both domestic and imported and if you stay in the same $7-15 range you are bound to find a nice one. Why not chardonnay? Well, chardonnay has been priced up over the past harvests and most of the top producers save the best grapes for their high end label. If you have time, look for Central Coast California Chardonnays. They are not as full bodied, tend to have a nice fruity taste without being sweet and they are still affordable.
Please do not expect your host to open your wine with dinner. I also recommend presenting it in a nice wine bag. This way, the host does not feel obligated to open it right away, however it is their choice. If you expect your wine to be served with dinner you better bring a serious collectible that has been properly cellared and ready to drink. Please understand that good chefs plan their menus including the wine choice especially when entertaining. Be a gracious guest, bring something nice and welcome a glass of whatever they serve and you will be invited again.”
Drink it up!
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