September 25, 2025 Plume Ridge Bottle Shop

How to Choose Wine for a Party Without Stress

Hosting a party is always exciting but figuring out what wine to serve can feel a little overwhelming. Do you need a fancy bottle? Should you buy a case? What if someone doesn’t like red wine? Don’t worry, you don’t have to be a sommelier to get it right. With a few simple tips, you’ll have wine that makes everyone happy (including you).

1. Keep It Simple

The best party wines are the ones people actually want to drink. Stick to easy crowd-pleasers, think Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay for white, Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon for red. These wines are versatile, food-friendly, and familiar enough that guests will feel comfortable pouring a glass.

2. Think about Quantity, Not Just Quality

A little planning goes a long way. As a rule of thumb, one bottle equals 4–5 glasses. For a 2–3 hour party, plan on about half a bottle per guest. So, if you’re hosting 10 people, 5–6 bottles should do the trick. And don’t forget, running out is worse than having leftovers, so round up.

3. Mix It Up

Not everyone drinks the same thing, so offering variety is key. At the very least, have one white and one red open. Adding a sparkling wine instantly makes the night feel festive, and a chilled rosé works year-round as an easy “in-between” option.

4. Match the Mood, Not the Menu

Sure, wine pairing with food matters, but for a party it’s more about matching the vibe.

Backyard BBQ? Grab a juicy Zinfandel, Malbec, or an ice-cold Rosé.

Elegant dinner party? Break out a Bordeaux blend, a rich Chardonnay, or Champagne.

Casual game night or potluck? Go for affordable, easy-drinking blends that keep the mood light and fun.

5. Don’t Stress About Price

You don’t have to spend big to pour good wine. Some of the best party-friendly bottles are in the $12–$20 range. Most guests won’t know or care how much you spent, as long as it tastes great. Pro tip: Buy a couple extra bottles of something you personally love. If they don’t get opened, you’ve stocked your own wine rack for later.

Final Sip...

When it comes down to it, a great party is about the people, not the wine list. Choosing a few versatile bottles, planning enough for your guest count, and keeping things relaxed will take the stress out of hosting. Pop the cork, pour a glass, and enjoy the celebration, you’ve already done the hardest part.

Contributed by Blake Leland, Sommelier for Plume Ridge Bottle Shop.