We have some big, bold, fruit-forward news. Contrary to what anyone says, you can drink whatever wines you want, whenever you want, however you want. (It’s called adulting…kind of like realizing you can eat cake without a special occasion or calling in sick to binge the new season of Broad City.) But here at OneTable, we know there are some best practices for optimum Shabbat dinner wine deliciousness, and it doesn’t need to be complicated or stressful. Check out these tips and tricks, and scroll down to learn more about our newest nourishment option from Winc.

Is there such a thing as too much wine? (PRO TIP #1: no)

When deciding how much wine to get for your Shabbat dinner, know your audience! There are four good-size glasses of wine in a 750-milliliter bottle, so you can do the math from there based on the vibe of your dinner who will be there. Depending on the size of your party, prepare for at least a half-bottle per person. 6 people? At least 4 bottles. 10 people? At least 6 bottles. And remember the golden rule of partying: Never run out of wine. Buy more than you need…somehow we don’t think it will go to waste.

PRO TIP #2: Shabbat + wine = a perfect pairing

Think about what kind of dinner you’re having and what food you’re serving when choosing your wines. A more traditional Shabbat dinner? Stick to classics like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay or Cabernet Sauvignon. Spicing it up? Match your spices with wines like Zinfandel (5-spice), Grenache (citrus), Sangiovese (peppers and tomatoes), Riesling (Galagal – common in Thai dishes), or Sauvignon Blanc (green herbs). Italian Friday Feast or Friday French Fête? Choose wines from the same region your dinner is focused on to make a great match. Sushi Shabbat, Nacho-average Friday, or a little bit of everything? Choose dry, food-friendly wines like Pinot Noir, Grenache or Pinot Blanc that will pair with a wide range of foods. (Little known fact that may or may not change your life…a fun sparkling wine pairs with just about anything.)

Still not sure what to get? PRO TIP #3: Go with what YOU like!

Ask a wine expert at your local store to help you out, or try Winc’s awesome quick 6-question palate quiz and let them recommend the perfect wines for you, then deliver them to your door.

Time to DRINK

When it comes to wine, temperature matters! Red wine served too warm will lose its complexity and fruit flavors and taste a little too boozy (not in the fun way). Similarly, if you serve white wine too cold, the temperature will stifle the taste. PRO TIP #4: The 15 minute rule. Stick reds in the fridge for 15 minutes before serving, and take whites out of the fridge 15 minutes before serving. In general, serve your wines on a spectrum of light and dry to heavy and sweet.

THE MOST IMPORTANT PRO TIP (formerly known as pro tip #5):

CHALLAHHHHH! You can now order wines from Winc for your next Shabbat dinner using your nourishment credit. Can you tell we’re excited? Here’s how it works.

Create and post your dinner on the OneTable platform. Choose Winc as one of your nourishment options, and choose if you want 4 or 6 bottles by the Tuesday of the week BEFORE your dinner, so we can ensure they get delivered to your door in time for Shabbat. Shipping is included, it doesn’t cost a thing to become a member, and you can skip or cancel anytime. Pick your own bottles, or let them choose & match to your taste. Already a Winc member? Just let us know when you select your nourishment and we’ll have it credited to your account. We know, it’s pretty great. Questions? Email Pammie@onetable.org.