WHAT TO BRING

Always bring at least one bottle of wine to a dinner party (and don’t be insulted if it isn’t served; it’s for the host).

At a barbecue, bring a grill-friendly red wine such as Chianti Classico or Shiraz. If you know there will be oysters, bring a crisp dry white such as Chablis or Muscadet. Pizza calls for a lively red like Ontario Gamay or Cabernet Franc. Offdry Riesling works well with Asian food.

If you don’t know your hosts or what is being served, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are always safe bets.