Five Drinks to Bring to a Dinner Party When You Want to Impress (Without Making Too Much Effort)

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Everyone knows the rule: when you go to someone's house for dinner, you bring something (even when they insist you shouldn't). After all, they've just spent hours slaving away in the kitchen — or ordering takeaway and putting it on nice plates to pretend they cooked it.

No need to panic purchase a lame box of choccies or spend hours staring dumbly at the bottle-o shelves to end up picking something based on how nice the label is. In partnership with BWS, we've got you covered for top-notch drops to take along. Whether it's refreshing summertime favourites, easy-drinking Aussie brews or lesser-known wine varieties, this crowd-pleasing list ensures success — and we'll even let you take all the credit.

RASPBERRY BERLINER WEISSE — WAYWARD BREWING CO

Camperdown's top-notch craft brewery Wayward turns out more than a few lovable quaffs, but you just can't go by its Raspberry Berliner Weisse. This raspberry sour is crisp and tart with a dry finish, and also happens to be a lovely shade of pink. And it's a true crowd-pleaser, whether you're a craft beer aficionado or the 'I don't drink beer' type. Plus, for the health-conscious, it's also the closest to a keto beer you'll get — it contains minimal sugar and is low carb and gluten-reduced.

XPA — PHILTER

Since launching back in 2017, Philter's flagship XPA has become a fan favourite across the Sydney beer scene. It even won Champion Pale Ale at the 2017 Craft Beer Awards just four months after launching. The unfiltered brew is naturally cloudy and easy to drink — it's designed to appeal to both craft beer lovers and those at the beginning of their beer journey. The brand nods to an old-school aesthetic — this XPA is packaged in retro blue and white cans, and is loved by those who want a well-brewed beer without the pretense. Philter is set to open its own brewery any day now, so keep an eye on this space.

CÔTE DES ROSES ROSÉ — GÉRARD BERTRAND

Showing up at your mate's house with a bottle of rosé is a no-brainer during the warm weather months. If you want to set your summertime favourite apart from the pack, go for Gerard Bertrand's Côte des Roses Rosé. It blends floral notes with summer fruits and is full-bodied yet balanced with a dry finish. And it's just oh-so-refreshing. This French wine also looks fancy in its pretty glass bottle with a rose-shaped bottom. Plus, it won't break the bank.

PHENOMENAL FIANO — ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM

If you want to impress your friends with your wine knowledge, bring along a lesser-known variety that they'll absolutely love. We suggest this fiano by Elephant in the Room. This South Australian winery is known for its full-bodied drops, and the fiano doesn't disappoint. The white wine expresses notes of citrus, apple and spice, with a crisp minerality that offers the perfect finish. It's undoubtedly a bold wine and is best shared with those who want something a little different.

PINOT NOIR — RAMBLING ROSES

As the nights start to cool, it's just about time to get back on those reds. A decent pinot noir is a good place to start — it's lighter, it isn't too heavy for autumn evenings. If you're looking for something that'll impress, but is accessible, Rambling Roses' version is the way to go. It presents as a typical pinot noir, but, for a discerning palate, is much more than that. Expect notes of red and black currants with juicy strawberries on the nose and an overall depth of flavour. That being said, it's also exceptionally sessionable and works well paired with dinner. On warmer nights, be sure to give it a quick chill to ensure it's thoroughly enjoyed.

Update: Due to the current situation, we understand that throwing or attending parties may not be a possibility right now. But there's a silver lining — you can still order all of these drinks online to enjoy at home. Head to the BWS website to browse the full range.