How much alcohol should we buy?

Vanita, Auckland

Erin & Darren answers...

Darren Harris, functions advisor at Regional Wines & Spirits, had this to say: "The way I gauge it, it is approximately 1 bottle of wine per head, and I allow 6 bottles of beer per person for the beer drinkers. Each wedding is different of course, and the Bride and Groom usually know if their guests are big drinkers or not. Bearing in mind we will accept [and many other retailers will accept] returns of unopened and undamaged stock if they are not used. It is always recommended more, rather than less, is supplied. "

Do you have an idea of how many of your guests are white wine drinkers, how many are red wine drinkers, how many are beer drinkers and how many are a combination? In terms of champagne, it is not as common for people to drink champagne throughout the evening. They will probably have a glass for the toasts or while nibbling on canapes, but I wouldn't plan for more than 2 glasses per person. So you first need to decide if you plan to have champagne as an early-evening toasting drink only or as a main beverage...

If you are going for one white wine, it's a tricky choice when it comes to picking either a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay. There is a happy medium though - how about try a dry Riesling?

It's probably not worth going through your entire guest list, as some traditionally white drinkers might opt for red on the night, and vice versa. You're best bet is going for half red / half white.

If you are choosing two kinds of beer, it might be a good idea to choose one lager and one ale or pilsner. This way you have a bit of variety.

And as Darren says, it is always better to have more than less. You can always return unopened bottles, or save them for the BBQ the next day!