What style of wine − and how many bottles − should you take to a dinner party?

May 1, 2026

Assuming it’s OK to take wine to a dinner party (some hosts may be offended), my recommendation is to take one bottle, not three. If your friends are thirsty types, though, three might, indeed, be the way to go.

What to choose? Ideally, suit the wine to the meal, your host and the other guests. Take a hearty shiraz if it’s a wintertime barbecue or a semillon if it’s a summertime seafood alfresco deal.

If your host has a show-off cellar, you can’t possibly compete, so take something eccentric, such as a Hungarian harslevelu or Georgian mtsvane. A bottle of Grange will always be a hit if your pockets are that deep.

Three to try

Willunga 100 Grenache Blanc 2025, $30
Floral, lemon blossom and nutty aromas; intense and fine but also textural, with a savouriness that loves food. Delicious with chicken, fish, seafoods and salads.
Chandon Vintage Brut 2019, $48
Complex buttered toast and nougat aromas; rich yet refined, and will impress even with a big chill. High-class bubbly goes with just about every food and every situation.
Mount Horrocks Alexander Vineyard Shiraz 2024, $62
Full-bodied and deeply flavoured mixed spices, dried herbs, black pepper and blackberry. Impressive depth and power but has the elegance to enjoy young with meats and cheeses.