What Wine to Take to a Dinner Party

Taking a bottle to dinner is a thank you, not a test. The host may open it or save it, and both are fine, so pick something you'd be happy to see either way.

Safe dinner party bottles

  • A medium-bodied red like Côtes du Rhône
  • A crisp white like Albariño
  • Prosecco to start the evening
  • Something sweet if there's a pudding

Etiquette

  • Don't expect it to be opened
  • Bring it chilled if it's white or fizz
  • Tell the host it's for them to enjoy later
  • Flowers or chocolates if they don't drink

Card messages to go with a bottle

  • Cheers! I asked the man in the shop, so blame him if it's rubbish.
  • A little something to sip while you put your feet up.
  • Here's to you. Drink responsibly, but not too responsibly.
  • I don't know much about wine, but I know you deserve a good one.

Key things to remember

  • Ask the shop staff: it's their job.
  • Spend £10 to £20 for a safe, crowd-pleasing bottle.
  • Gift wrap or a bag makes any bottle look special.

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Frequently asked questions

Should the host open the wine I bring?

Not necessarily. It's a gift, so they can save it.

What wine goes with most food?

A medium red like Côtes du Rhône or a crisp white like Albariño.

What is a good example of what wine to take to a dinner party?

"A medium-bodied red like Côtes du Rhône" is one of 12 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.

Can I copy these messages word for word?

Yes. Everything on this page is free to copy, print and read out - no permission or credit needed. Changing one detail so it fits the person is all we would suggest.

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