With such a wide variety to choose from, selecting wines for pre-wedding celebrations, the reception and post-wedding get-togethers can be a daunting task. But I recently came across some terrific, affordable libations for you to consider — reds, whites, a sparkling wine and even tasty sangria.
The health benefits of a glass of red wine are well known, but if you’re like me certain red wines can often bring on headaches due to the level of histamines. Enter Veglio Barbera d’Alba ($14-$16):
And Veglio Dolcetto d’Alba ($14-$16):
Both of these low-histamine wines were created by the Veglio Michelino e Figlio winery along with International Wine Consultant Sebastiano Ramello through a natural process of grape selection, fermentation and vine handling. So you’ll still enjoy the satisfying flavor of fruity, floral notes without the threat of morning-after headaches.
If a white wine is more to your liking, especially a festive sparkling wine for toasting, you’ll also want to consider Veglio Re Della Notte a 100% Extra Dry Sauvignon, $13-$16. Visit vegliomichelinoefiglio.com for more information, and check with your local liquor store for availability.
I often find the names on wine bottles amusing, clever and just plain fun. So why not have specially named bottles of wine on hand for certain celebrations? At an engagement party, this Napa Valley red wine from Taken Wine Co., “Taken” ($30), says it all.
For your bridal shower, engagement party or bridesmaids’ get-together, this pinot grigio, “Fancy Pants” ($9.99), looks especially festive. And if your wedding colors happen to include this pretty shade of blue, it will look wonderful on your reception tables.
One of my personal favorites, a red wine mix of zinfandel, merlot and cabernet sauvignon, appropriately named Ménage à Trois ($9.99), is a fun libation for a bachelorette or bachelor party (uh, let’s just keep the threesome to the bottle name, people!).
At the wedding, a perfect choice for designated drivers and pregnant guests is the alcohol-free Fre Sparkling Brut ($7).
After the wedding, entertain family and friends in your new home with Lock & Key Meritage ($12), a Bordeaux-style red blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc.
Visit tfewines.com for more information and look for these wines at your local liquor store.
I love the look of LOLEA, a refreshing, gourmet sangria from the Mediterranean ($19.49). The eye-catching, red and white-dotted bottle lends a joyful, colorful flair to any celebration.
Available in either red or white wine sangria, LOLEA contains a moderate amount of alcohol and is made with all natural ingredients. You can even plan your party décor around the polka-dot theme.
Visit sangrialolea.com to order and for lots of sangria cocktail ideas.
And how pretty is this beautifully illustrated bottle of Sociologie Blushing Rose ($12.99)?
It’s perfect for garden weddings, bridal showers or for adding a special decorative touch to your dessert tables. It’s also an ideal gift for your bridal party to thank them for all their support. They’ll love its crisp, refreshing taste of roses, melon, light strawberry and vanilla. Sociologie wine is available at Walmart, local Texas liquor stores and online. For more information and other wine choices, visit sociologiewine.com. Cheers!
—Diane Forden
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