If you are planning a wedding, you are likely overwhelmed with the number of things to plan for, including what beverages you'll offer guests who drink alcohol. Although your options may seem virtually limitless, there are simple ways to construct a solid array of offerings that won't disappoint even the most discriminating of drinkers. Keep reading below to discover just four of the absolute musts when it comes to stocking the bar at your wedding.
Champagne
While you may have a bottle of sparkling wine off a store shelf that calls itself "champagne", it doesn't count as the real stuff unless it was produced in the Champagne region of France using methods overseen by the Comité Champagne. While every wedding differs, champagne is usually used only for toasts, so feel free to get just one bottle per table and leave it at that. If your budget allows for you to spring for the good stuff, it's worth it to locate a particular vintage; otherwise, you can expect to save big by settling for a non-vintage bottle.
Wine
Wine is a staple of any wedding bar, and you should have a variety for your guests to choose from. If you are serving seafood as the main course, then you can offer to pair it with a glass of white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, or Pinot Grigio. On the other hand, if more of your dishes incorporate red meat, then you should stock up on bottles of red wine, including but not limited to Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir.
Whiskey
Whiskey is a popular alcoholic beverage to have as part of a catered bar, if for no other reason than its versatility. Many people enjoy bourbon whiskey straight or on the rocks, while others enjoy bourbon or rye-based cocktails such as the Old Fashioned and Mint Julep. If you know you have several guests that appreciate international whiskeys, it may be a good idea to include Canadian rye whiskey and Scotch whiskey blends behind the bar as well.
Gin
Gin is the unsung hero of many a wedding bar, as it's necessary to make everything from a classic Martini to a refreshing Gin and Tonic. The Negroni is another popular cocktail made with gin that is perfect as an aperitif. Make sure that you have just as much vermouth on hand to mix with the gin so that your wedding guests are free to have a second round.
For more information, visit a local liquor store.
