Malbec and Merlot
Photo courtesy of Sur Asia

An elegant venue complemented by an expensive menu may no longer be the standard by which wedding banquets are judged. Indeed, an increasingly sophisticated guest list would expect more - a beautifully decked-out hotel ballroom or restaurant, a painstakingly set table, unique and personal wedding favours, to name a few.

The correct wine to serve as an accompaniment to the food is also an area that needs special attention. With Chinese banquets running for up to nine dishes, and with each dish probably cooked in a different style, selecting a generally palate-enhancing wine may pose a challenge.

Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay
Photo courtesy of Sur Asia

• Provide them with the full list of dishes in the menu and the order in which they will be served.
  
  
• Have a wine tasting in conjunction with the food tasting, if possible.
  
  
• Discuss the issue of red vs white.
  
  
• Make a projection of the number of bottles required and negotiate for a return of unopened bottles.