How Much Wine to Buy for Christmas
Planning your Christmas gathering is all about creating memorable moments—and wine plays a starring role in setting the festive mood. But how much wine should you buy, and which bottles should you serve? Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner or a lively party, this guide will help you estimate the perfect amount of wine and select the best bottles for every stage of your Christmas entertaining.
Let’s dive into this ultimate guide on how much wine to buy for Christmas and which wines pair best with canapés, nibbles, dinner, and after-dinner treats.
How Much Wine Do You Need for Christmas?
Here’s a simple rule of thumb, with a little extra built in:
- Plan for ¾ of a bottle of wine per person for every 2-3 hours of entertaining. This covers the average consumption while leaving room for top-ups and second helpings. Remember, it’s always better to have too much than too little—unopened bottles can be enjoyed after the holiday season.
Quick Wine-Planning Reference Table
| Occasion | Wine Type | Quantity Estimate | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canapés & Nibbles | Sparkling or Light White | ¾ bottle per 2 guests | Prosecco, Sauvignon Blanc |
| Dinner (White) | Full-bodied White | 1 bottle per 2-3 guests | Chardonnay, Viognier |
| Dinner (Red) | Light or Bold Red | 1 bottle per 2-3 guests | Pinot Noir, Rioja |
| After Dinner | Dessert or Fortified | 1 bottle per 4-6 guests | Sauternes, Tawny Port |
| Cheese Boards | Full-bodied Red or Sherry | 1 bottle per 4-6 guests | Amarone, Fino Sherry |
Christmas Wine for Canapés and Nibbles
The festivities often start with light bites and canapés, so the wine here should be refreshing and versatile.
- Wine Style: Sparkling wine or light whites are the perfect choice. They complement delicate flavours like smoked salmon, cheese straws, or bruschetta.
- How Much to Buy: Plan for 1-2 glasses per person, or roughly ¾ of a bottle for every 2 guests.
- Top Picks:
Best Wines for Christmas Dinner
The main event deserves wines that shine alongside your feast, whether you're serving turkey, ham, or vegetarian mains.
White Wine for Dinner
- Wine Style: Go for a full-bodied white, like a Chardonnay or Viognier, which pairs beautifully with roast turkey, creamy sauces, or vegetable dishes.
- How Much to Buy: 1 bottle for every 2-3 guests.
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Top Picks:
- Chardonnay from Burgundy: Buttery and elegant, ideal for traditional Christmas dishes.
- Viognier: Aromatic and luscious, with notes of peach and spice.
Red Wine for Dinner
- Wine Style: Choose a light red like a Pinot Noir for poultry, or a bold red like a Bordeaux blend for richer meats like roast beef or lamb.
- How Much to Buy: 1 bottle for every 2-3 guests.
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Top Picks:
- Pinot Noir: Light and fruity, with subtle complexity.
- Rioja Reserva: Smooth and versatile, with just the right amount of depth.
After-Dinner Drinks: Dessert Wines and Ports
After the main course, it’s time for sweet indulgence with dessert wines or fortified wines that pair well with Christmas pudding, mince pies, or cheese boards.
- Wine Style: Choose a luscious Sauternes, a nutty Tawny Port, or a crisp Sherry.
- How Much to Buy: Smaller servings are typical here (50-75ml per glass), so 1 bottle for every 4-6 guests will suffice.
-
Top Picks:
- Sauternes: A classic dessert wine with notes of honey and apricot.
- Tawny Port: Rich and nutty, perfect for pairing with cheese or chocolate.
Wine for Cheese Boards and Finishing Nibbles
To round out the evening, offer wines that balance savoury flavours.
- Wine Style: A full-bodied red like Amarone or a crisp, dry Sherry pairs wonderfully with nuts, hard cheeses, and savoury nibbles.
- How Much to Buy: Allow 1 bottle per 4-6 guests.
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Top Picks:
- Amarone della Valpolicella: Rich, velvety, and packed with dried fruit notes.
- Fino Sherry: Crisp, dry, and perfect for salty snacks.
Quick Wine-Planning Reference Table
| Occasion | Wine Type | Quantity Estimate | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canapés & Nibbles | Sparkling or Light White | ¾ bottle per 2 guests | Prosecco, Sauvignon Blanc |
| Dinner (White) | Full-bodied White | 1 bottle per 2-3 guests | Chardonnay, Viognier |
| Dinner (Red) | Light or Bold Red | 1 bottle per 2-3 guests | Pinot Noir, Rioja |
| After Dinner | Dessert or Fortified | 1 bottle per 4-6 guests | Sauternes, Tawny Port |
| Cheese Boards | Full-bodied Red or Sherry | 1 bottle per 4-6 guests | Amarone, Fino Sherry |
Top Tips for Stress-Free Christmas Wine Planning
- Stock Up: Always buy a little more than you think you’ll need. Unopened bottles can be enjoyed later.
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Serve at the Right Temperature:
- Whites and sparkling wines: Serve chilled (7–10°C).
- Reds: Serve slightly below room temperature (15–18°C).
- Have Non-Alcoholic Options: Sparkling water, juices, or non-alcoholic wines are great to have on hand for non-drinking guests.
- Think Ahead: Chill whites and sparkling wines early, and decant bold reds 1-2 hours before serving to enhance their flavours.
Shop for Your Christmas Wines
Now that you’re ready to plan your perfect Christmas gathering, explore our carefully curated selection of wines. Whether you need sparkling for toasts, reds for hearty dinners, or dessert wines for indulgent moments, we have something for everyone.
Contact us for personalised recommendations or visit our online store to stock up for the festive season.