Wine selection for an event can be a complicated endeavor. Depending on the size of your group and the nature of the meeting, choosing which wine(s) to serve may be the hardest decision you’ll make. But don’t get discouraged just yet! Here, we have our simple guide to meeting wines. Sure, satisfying multiple palates on a budget can be difficult, but these quick tips should ease the process!
Budget is often the most important factor in wine selection for events, especially in this economy, but you shouldn’t let that ruin your fun!
If you are short on cash, choosing wines that fly “under-the-radar” will give your group the financial satisfaction it needs, while surprising their palates with something delicious and unexpected!
If you have a mid-range budget for your group, you can afford to take risks 
and try something a little different!
- Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, Chile, or Bordeaux
- Chardonnay from Sonoma, Burgundy, or South Africa
- Pinot Noir from Hamilton Russell in Walker Bay, South Africa
- Chardonnay from Maison Leroy
If you are part of an organization that has the money to spend, more power to you! Just search for wines that will get your guests the most excited, and go from there!
SIMPLE TIP: When it comes to wine, expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better.
Different Tastes definitely need to be considered when purchasing wine for an event. Whether your group is wine-savvy or prefers something more simple, there is always something to please!
Wines that taste fine when sipped alone are perfect for a less wine-savvy group. Look for something drinkable and affordable to serve at your event!
- Penfolds in Australia
- Robert Mondavi in Napa Valley
- Look for selections from California, Chile, Australia, or South Africa
Group size matters in wine selection as well because it determines your budget and tasting limitations. Here are some guidelines for larger and smaller groups, but feel free to do your own thing too! Hey, it’s your meeting after all!
For larger groups, take the simple route without being boring and go for the beloved basics! Whether you want to serve one white and one red, or make just one selection for 
your meeting, we’ve got you covered!
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Lighter Chardonnay
- Pinot Noir
- Rosé
Smaller groups can afford to get creative with their wine selection! Choosing something that’s rare without breaking the bank is the perfect option for a meeting of this size!
SIMPLE TIP: Looking to wow your group without alarming their taste buds with a bizarre wine selection? Find out what your guests like about the wines they drink and use those characteristics to choose something they’ve never seen before!
Collaboration and Communication are crucial when selecting wines for your group. If you keep these three things in mind, your selection is sure to be a hit!
- Articulate what you’re looking for
- Make your budget known
- Leave the rest up to the wine director and chef
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