11/1/06 Holidays & Entertaining

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran. Shopping for a party? On today's program we'll discuss how much wine you might need for your upcoming holiday party. Whether you are hosting an open house or a dinner party, determining how much wine to provide is a big consideration. First, I would always recommend that when serving wine you provide food. I would also recommend that you have a selection of beverages for the designated driver and for those who would like to switch to something non-alcohol when they're finished with wine. Now, if your party is casual and your guests will be milling around and serving themselves then I think the focus is on visiting and it really isn't important to serve expensive wines. Serve at least one white wine that isn't too dry, maybe a Riesling or a Gewürztraminer, another white that is very dry my favorite is a nice crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Look for a red wine that is smooth and approachable, perhaps Merlot or Syrah. When it comes to quantity, remember that there are about four to five glasses of wine in a bottle. You know best if your friends drink mostly red or white. So adjust you proportions accordingly. It never hurts to have a few extra bottle of each in case you guess wrong  after all it's not a bad thing to have some left over. If you're having a dinner party and serving numerous courses - then serve smaller quantities of each of the wines. That way you won't be drinking too much and you can taste a broader selection of wines. Above all have fun! Enjoy your friends and enjoy your holiday party! And thanks for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.