What is a Wedding Wine Ceremony?

How a Wedding Wine Ceremony Works

When you hear “wedding wine ceremony,” you might think it refers to the traditional toasts given at dinner. However, a wine ceremony is actually a ritual during the wedding ceremony itself, and it doesn’t involve speeches at all.

A wine ceremony symbolizes the blending of two lives. Similar to the sand-blending ceremonies popular in the early 2000s, this ritual involves combining a red wine and a white wine to create a rose-colored blend. This delicate pink color represents blush and love. Typically, the ceremony occurs after the couple exchanges rings, accompanied by music rather than speeches.

To perform the ritual, the couple pours wine from individual goblets or small carafes into a shared decanter. Later, they bring this decanter to the reception, where it often becomes a centerpiece at the head table. Some couples drink the blended wine, while others leave it as décor. For those who choose not to drink it, selecting a sealable decanter allows them to preserve the wine as a lasting wedding memory.

Choose Your Wines Carefully

If this appeals to you, and especially if you plan to drink the blended wine later, be sure to pick wines that play well together. No matter what varieties you choose, be sure to blend appropriately. If you blend too much red, all you’ll wind up with is a lighter red. If pink is the goal, aim for pouring more ounces of white wine than red.