Daily Dish the Sonoma Market blog
Bartender Basics
From dinner parties to cocktail parties and everything in between, drinks are an important part of the menu! Whether it’s wine, beer, mixed drinks or something on the softer side, the right beverage can bring out the best in any get-together. Follow along for pro tips, serving suggestions, festive recipes and more!
From dinner parties to cocktail parties and everything in between, drinks are an important part of the menu! Whether it’s wine, beer, mixed drinks or something on the softer side, the right beverage can bring out the best in any get-together. Follow along for pro tips, serving suggestions and more!
WINE:
- When serving, start with white wine and build to red.
- Serve white wine between 45–50°F. Serving right out of the fridge (36–38°F) will dull the delicate aromas and flavors of the wine.
- Serve red wine between 55–65°F. Anything above 70°F accentuates the alcohol and strips out the fresh fruit, making it seem lighter-bodied than it is.
BEER:
- If only serving beer, offer two different types, like a lighter style lager and a bolder IPA or stout.
- For the perfect pour, tilt the glass to about 45° and fill halfway, then straighten the glass to finish the pour, creating about two fingers of foam on top.
SPIRITS:
- Stock your bar with different distilled liquors like vodka, gin, tequila, rum, whiskey and brandy.
- Pair with flavored liqueurs, bitters, fruit juices and/or mixers to create all sorts of fun libations.
NON-ALCOHOLIC:
- There’s more than just soda for anyone choosing not to sip. Find a variety of non-alcoholic wines, beers, spirits and mocktails in our aisles that anyone can enjoy!
BUY MORE, SAVE MORE:
- If you’re shopping at Nugget Market or Sonoma Market, enjoy a 10% discount when you buy 6 or more 750mL bottles of wine or spirits!
As for the amounts... click on the little green grid below to see how much wine, beer, spirits, non-aloholic beverages and ice you should plan on for different party situations!
Selection may vary by store.