Statistics Canada surveys indicate that Canadians are the fifth largest consumers of wine in the world, states Waterford Wedgwood, so expect that at least one of your guests will be a wine drinker.

According to Waterford Wegwood, red wines, such as Bordeaux, and Cabernet Sauvignon should be enjoyed in large red wine glasses. "A red wine glass' deep balloon increases the surface to air contact and releases the wine's assertive characteristics during the tasting process."

To bring out the delicate bouquets of fruity whites such as Chablis and Pinot Blanc, Waterford Wedgwood suggests that, "a white wine glass with a curved lip tightly contains the aromas and sends the wine to the correct tasting zone on the tongue."

Images courtesy of Waterford Crystal Left: White Wineglass,     Centre: Red Wineglass,       Right: Champagne Flute

John Seaga, owner of The Village Winemaker, in Oakville, says that when choosing stemware, one should keep in mind that, "proper wine stemware should be thin, made of clear glass or crystal; free of etchings, and hold a minimum of eight ounces."

If a celebration is at the heart of your dinner party, then consider serving champagne. "The champagne flute is tall and narrow to focus the bouquets and preserve the delicate bubbles, and the thin lip enhances the crisp flavour of this elegant wine," advises Waterford Wedgwood.

"Surprisingly, champagne is a versatile wine to have with a meal," says Seaga. "Dry and light it compliments the appetizer and does not clutter the palate. Full and dry it also compliments many main courses.... It even goes with breakfast," laughs Seaga.