Beverages

White wines are usually served chilled, red wines at (cool) room temperature (18°C). Red wines are opened about an hour before serving to allow them to "breathe". Usually about 40% of the available bottles are placed on the table to facilitate serving and create an attractive appearance. Allow approximately 350 ml of wine and approximately 300 ml of fruit juice or punch per person.
If sparkling wine or fortified wines are served, the quantity of wine may be reduced. Wine in cartons may be poured into glass containers and placed on the table. Remove the empties and replenish regularly. Place the glasses in small groups on the tables. One glass per person is sufficient, but keep a few clean ones in reserve just in case.

Serving

At an informal party, guests pour their own wine and select their own combinations of cheese and biscuits or other accompaniments. Bread may simply be broken by hand, or it may be sliced and even buttered beforehand. Garlic loaves, focaccia, Italian and rye bread are popular. If hot courses are served, planning should obviously allow for plates, cutlery and seating. If preferred, coffee and perhaps something sweet may be served at the end of the party. Good quality chocolate, truffles or strawberries dipped in chocolate or caramel sugar can be served with coffee.