What Wine Should I Bring to the Party?

It’s hard to believe that it is State Fair Time – the unofficial grand finale to summer activities in Central New York. Fortunately, September brings its own gifts, including a slightly slower pace of life and the opportunity to share a good bottle of wine on a crisp fall evening in your favorite sweater.

As summer winded down, Kathy, Kate, Pam, and Carolyn enjoyed their family vacations. Lots of beach locales: Bethany in Delaware (Kathy), Cape Cod (Kate), Hamptons on Long Island (Pam), the Jersey Shore (Carolyn) and, as always, our local treasure: Skaneateles. It is entirely possible that we know more about beaches than wine, but that’s what makes us relatable, right?

Speaking of wine, this month we are departing from our typical format and sharing our favorite bottles to bring to a gathering. We’re not talking about an expensive bottle to give as a special gift (although that’s an idea for December) but more our go-to bottle to give as hostess gifts or to sip at home.

One important thing to keep in mind is whether the home is alcohol-free. Someone who leads a sober lifestyle probably knows how to handle a gift of wine, but we’d all rather not make that mistake. If you are in any doubt, bring flowers or chocolate.

Once you decide to bring wine, should you expect the recipient to serve it? No, according to Emily Post Etiquette, “don’t expect your host to serve your wine that night; he or she may have selected specific wines to pair with the appetizers, meal, and dessert.” When it comes to presentation, I like to attach a small card to the bottle that the host can read later because sometimes things at the party are hectic or several people bring bottles of wine so your gift may get lost in the mix. Emily Post agrees and lets us off the hook for gift packaging saying, “do attach a small card, as your host may receive a few bottles (wine gift bags are optional).”

Now that we’ve covered the logistics, let’s turn to the recommendations.

Kate:

My choice of wine to bring as a hostess gift or just to sip myself is Whispering Angel Rosé. The bottle is as beautiful as the wine is delicious. This rosé is exceptionally drinkable with citrus flavors and pink grapefruit. I pair it with all my favorite summer foods or just drink it by itself by the firepit. I like to keep a case around the house. The cost is reasonable: $21 a bottle.

Kathy:

My favorite go-to wine for a gathering is Napa Valley’s Bread and Butter Pinot Noir. This Pinot has been a favorite of mine for some time and has become a favorite of family and friends as well (just ask Carolyn). This medium-body is a red that can be enjoyed all year round. It’s light but has a taste of dark berries and plum. If you are looking for a red to suit most pallets, this is a winner at around $15 a bottle. I always buy it by the case.

Pam:

The wine I chose is Wölffer Estate Summer in a Bottle Rosé. There are two versions of this tasty wine as it is produced at the Wölffer Vineyard on the North Fork of Long Island and, as of this summer, at the Wölffer Vineyard in Cotes De Provence France. You can purchase either one right here in Upstate New York or if you are fortunate enough to travel to one of those locations, you can purchase them at one of the wonderful vineyards. They are both equally delicious and they are priced at $29 a bottle.

Summer in a Bottle captures the essence of summer and brings back many memories for me. The Long Island version is a blend of Long Island’s top grape varieties, and it bursts with fruit flavors. It also has a floral scent to match the beautiful floral bottle. The French version is similar with aromas of peach, citrus and floral scents. They are both light and versatile and a perfect way to celebrate summer or any time. I highly recommend a case of Wölffer Estate Summer in a Bottle Rose.

Carolyn:

As a hostess gift, I recommend Odfjell Armador Sauvignon Blanc. This organic white from Chile is easy to enjoy. It’s got a balanced, crisp taste and pairs well with a variety of foods. While some Sauvignon Blancs provide a punch of citrus, often grapefruit, at the end, this wine is a bit more subtle making it versatile and a very appealing choice across the board. The cost is very reasonable at around $18 a bottle and I recommend buying a case and enjoying it all year long.

Hope you enjoy the recommendations!

Cheers to all from Kathy, Kate, Pam, & Carolyn.

Carolyn Brown