CHOOSING the wine to serve to your wedding guests can be one of those decisions that’s often left to chance.
With the majority of brides (61% according to You & Your Wedding magazine’s 21st Century Bride survey) planning the day on their own, it’s hardly surprising that celebratory tipples can be overshadowed by a sweeping train of silk tulle.
To lend a guiding hand – after all, the biggest expense prior to the honeymoon is food and drink, with the average beverage bill costing £1,328 – here are some suggestions to help you tie the knot in style.
Paramount to the running order of the day, guests should have at least one glass of champagne for the toasts, and half a bottle of white or red wine to accompany the wedding breakfast.
However, if you find champers and cava a touch too rich, a lighter sparkle such as prosecco is the A-list tipple that’s currently on everyone’s lips.
For a standout style that will keep its verve long after the speeches, try Prosecco Frizzante, Treviso, Fabio Ceschin, Italy (£9.30, www.tanners-wines.co.uk). From Valdobbiadene and Conegliano, the gentle bubbles have a delicate floral bouquet with generous peachy fruit, and the refreshing, harmonious finish makes this a good contender for wedding feasts with late-night entertainment.
Supermarket champagne can offer excellent value, and if you’re not a wine snob, it’s hard to beat Champagne Veuve Monsigny by Philizot & Fils, France (£12.99, Aldi) for fresh, fruity bubbles at a terrific price.
Straw gold, it’s a classic blend of chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier, and the subtle complex style with toasty characteristics and a lively citrus finish make it a good crowd pleaser with canapes before or during the main event.
With personalisation a key trend for 2013, bespoke bottle labels make the occasion even more special – and Finest Fizz is on hand to discuss the bride’s desires.
Made with similar chardonnay grapes from the grand cru vineyards of Les Mesnil, try Champagne Bernard Pertois Cuvee de Reserve Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru, France (£33; personalised label, £2, www.finestfizz.biz).
The ideal choice for an impressive banquet, or to sip and savour when you retire to the honeymoon suite, it’s elegant and crisp with a floral nose, soft white fruit, great depth of flavour and the finest mineral streak to give it a luxurious mouthfeel and fabulous freshness.
Depending on the number of guests, neutral Italian whites make a versatile aperitif and the tempting price offered by respected producers makes them a popular choice to serve with finger bites and party food.
With an appealing crispness and almond notes, try Moncaro Verdicchio 2012, Marche, Italy (£5.59, Waitrose) which is an easy-drinking, light, dry white with honeyed flavours and a delicious tangy finish.
