THINK

Wine BY RYAN GREENE

Celebrating the MOMENT ne of the most (a Spanish sparkling wine made memorable the same way that Champagne moments in is produced, but with different any wedding grapes). involves the Sparkling wines also have Champagne toast. The image varying levels of sweetness. of Champagne itself evokes Understanding these Othoughts of celebration, romance, descriptions on the label can and special occasions. The truth help you choose which wine going to a local wine shop for So how many bottles should is that nothing signifies a special would be best for your event: recommendations. you purchase for the big event? occasion more than opening a Brut Natural (bone dry), Extra If the event is scheduled during To be on the safe side, you bottle of Champagne. Brut (very dry), Brut (very dry the day or is outdoors, many should plan for two glasses of Champagne is actually only one to dry — most popular), Extra prefer Prosecco, Cava, or even Champagne per guest. Keep of many types of sparkling wine. Sec (medium dry – second most a sparkling Rosé. But if the toast in mind that a standard bottle In reality, any sparkling wine popular), Sec (medium sweet), is at night or inside, look toward of Champagne fills around six can be an excellent substitution Demi-Sec (sweet, more of a richer styled sparkling wines glasses. And how much wine is for Champagne. There are dessert wine) and Doux (luscious, such as Blanc de Noirs, Blanc de needed for the toast? A simple many options available to fit any also a dessert wine). Blancs, Italian Metodo Classico, guideline is to divide your guest budget, without sacrificing taste Before the event, it may be or classic French Champagne. count by 7 to 9, and provide this and quality. Some of the most a good idea to taste a couple of number of bottles. This should popular sparkling wines include types to help you decide what Another tip: While Brut is ensure at least a half-glass for Champagne (produced only in a to choose. Don’t be afraid to considered the classic choice, if everyone to take part in the toast. specific region 90 miles north of ask the venue manager if this you plan to use Champagne for But regardless what you Paris), Prosecco (fruity, crisp wine is a possibility. When buying cocktails, choose the more versatile choose, always remember that from a white grape variety grown sparkling wine for a large crowd, extra sec Champagne. If serving ultimately any sparkling wine will in northeastern Italy), Asti (a you don’t want to break the bank; a glass of Champagne with the provide a feeling of celebration for sweet Italian sparkling wine with a to help you find a Champagne wedding cake, consider the sweeter lower alcohol content), and Cava that offers good value, consider demi-sec Champagne. your special day. Cheers!