Planning a holiday party is all about creating an enjoyable experience for your guests… and having a great time with them, too.
When it comes to drinks, one of the most common questions is: How much wine should I buy?
Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or a lively soirée, this guide will help you determine the perfect amount of wine to serve and ensure you’re prepared for every sip.
The Basics: Estimating Wine Consumption
The general rule of thumb is to plan for 1 drink per guest per hour. For a party that lasts around 3 hours, you’ll need 3 drinks per guest. Since a standard 750ml bottle of wine contains about 5 servings, the math becomes easy:
Total Wine Needed (in bottles) = (Number of Guests × Party Duration in Hours) ÷ 5
Example:
- Guests: 15
- Duration: 3 hours
- Formula: (15 × 3) ÷ 5 = 9 bottles
Dividing Your Wine Selection
A good mix of wines ensures there’s something for everyone. For a casual party with drinks and snacks, here’s a recommended breakdown:
- 50% White Wine: Light and versatile, great with most snacks.
- 30% Red Wine: For those who enjoy something bold.
- 20% Sparkling Wine: Perfect for holiday cheer and toasts.
What to by for a 3 hour party with 15 guests:
- 9 bottles total:
- 5 bottles white
- 3 bottles red
- 1–2 bottles sparkling
Adjust for Your Crowd
- If your crowd loves sparkling wine, increase the proportion to 30%.
- If most guests are red wine lovers, bump red to 40%.
- Expecting more light drinkers? Scale back the total quantity and add non-alcoholic options.
Adapting the Formula for Your Party
- Estimate Party Length: Use the formula above to calculate total wine.
- Consider Your Guests: Adjust the mix based on preferences and drinking habits.
- Round Up: It’s better to have a few extra bottles than to run out.
Don’t Forget Water and Non-Alcoholic Options
Hydration is key to keeping the party lively and your guests happy. Include:
- Water Stations: Plan for 2 glasses of water per guest per hour.
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Offer sparkling water, soda, or a festive mocktail. Plan for 1 non-alcoholic drink per non-drinker per hour and extra for variety.
Bonus Tips
- Serve Wine at the Right Temperature: Chill whites and sparkling wines in advance, and let reds breathe for an hour before serving.
- Use Smaller Glasses for Sparkling Wine: This helps control portions and keeps the bubbles lively.
- Label Your Wines: Add fun tags or cards to help guests identify their choices.
With this guide, you’re ready to stock your bar like a pro and host a memorable holiday party.
If you need wine suggestions, be sure to use the Wine4.Me recommendation tool to hand select wines with the flavor profiles you and your guests will love.
Cheers to a festive and fun celebration! 🍷✨
