Perfect Pairings: How To Match Wine With Your Wedding Menu
Selecting the right wines for a wedding is more than checking off a to-do list. It requires careful coordination between the food being served and the overall mood of the event. A well-planned wine pairing can elevate the dining experience for guests and create a memorable part of your celebration.
Start with the Style of Your Meal
The first step in choosing the right wines is understanding the structure of your wedding menu. A formal, plated dinner with multiple courses might call for different wines with each dish, while a buffet or family-style setup might benefit from versatile bottles that pair well across a range of flavors. Consider whether your menu focuses on seafood, red meat, poultry, or plant-based options. Each of these protein choices has ideal wine pairings that bring out the best in both the food and the beverage.
For example, lighter dishes like grilled fish or herbed chicken work well with white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Richer entrees like filet mignon or braised short ribs shine next to a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. If you’re offering both meat and vegetarian options, wines like Pinot Noir or Chardonnay can act as flexible pairings that accommodate a wide range of flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Consider the Season and Venue
The time of year and setting also play a role in wine selection. Summer weddings may lean into crisp whites and rosés that feel refreshing in warm weather. Cooler seasons are well-suited to deeper reds and fuller-bodied whites that complement heartier meals. Outdoor weddings might benefit from wines served at slightly cooler temperatures, while indoor venues allow more flexibility.
It is also important to think about the pacing of your event. Champagne or sparkling wine is often served at the start, offering a bright and celebratory introduction. For dinner, aim to serve the wine with the food, not before, so the flavors complement each other as intended. Dessert wines or fortified selections can follow with the cake or sweets course.
Balance Familiarity with Discovery
Guests come with different preferences, so it is helpful to offer at least one white and one red that are broadly appealing. However, that does not mean your selections need to be overly safe. A wine tasting before the wedding can help you find unique varietals that still suit your menu. This experience also allows you to feel confident in your choices and gives you the opportunity to include personal favorites.
Make sure your caterer or venue knows your choices in advance, and confirm whether the wines will be served by the bottle or poured by the glass. If your event includes toasts, make sure there is enough sparkling wine on hand for all guests to participate.
Pairing wine with a wedding menu is an opportunity to bring thoughtful detail to the experience. When done well, the wines will complement the food, highlight seasonal flavors, and leave a lasting impression. To learn more, check out the accompanying infographic below.
