If you are inexperienced with wine or don’t know all of the “rules” that go along with it, you may feel a bit uneasy going to a fancy restaurant or dinner party where you know wine will be served. Wine is the perfect adult beverage to drink when you are gathered around some food surrounded by the people you love, or to have while you relax after a long day. Unlike with most beer or spirits, it is good to have some basic knowledge about wine, especially if you are giving it as a gift to the host or hostess.

Selecting your Wine

If you are going to a dinner party and thinking of bringing a bottle of wine as a gift, you will more than likely select one of two wine options: white or red. Although you can’t really go wrong with your choice as the receiver will be grateful for your gift, if you really want to make a great impression, ask what will be served for dinner.

The general rule that everybody seems to agree upon is white wine goes great with pork, chicken, and fish, while red wine pairs perfectly with beef. This can be a great conversation starter if you don’t know the host that well. If you don’t know what will be served primarily, you can always just bring your favourite bottle to share or bring one bottle of each, we are sure the hosts won’t mind!

How to Pour Wine

If you have been given the task of opening and pouring the wine at your dinner party, here is a quick guide on how to do it properly. The first step is to remove any foil that is over the head of the bottle. The second step is to use a corkscrew to remove the cork. Lastly, pour about four ounces of wine into each glass. Wipe the bottle clean so no remnants spill onto the table.

How to Choose a Bottle of Wine at a Restaurant

If you are going to a fancy restaurant for a date and want to impress your significant other, you don’t want to go in blind when ordering wine. You don’t have to follow the above rules if it’s just the two of you, you can just go with what their preference is. What you will want to be aware of is the process of ordering wine. Depending on the restaurant, the server will bring over the bottle you chose and show you the label. Simply nod if they brought the right bottle. Some restaurants will give you a sample of the wine after they open it. If you like it, nod your head, if not shake your head.

Buy your Wine at Seven Degrees

If you need any help selecting wine for your next dinner party, you can trust the pros at Edmonton’s favourite wine store, Seven Degrees. Chris, your sommelier, will be happy to help you choose the perfect wine that will impress everybody you will be serving!