HEALDSBURG, Calif. -- More than half of consumers (52%) serve wine at summer gatherings, according to a new survey conducted for Gallo of Sonoma Winery here.
ur weeks, and 16% entertaining at least once every week.
Most of the celebrations revolve around family, as 65% of survey respondents participate in family reunions or get-togethers during the summer.
Festivities in the summer are more casual and spur of the moment than at other times in the year. Almost half (47%) of those polled host or attend summer get-togethers planned one week or less in advance, with 17% making the decision completely impromptu.
When asked about the best gift for a party host, respondents cited baked goods (30%) and a bottle of wine (26%).
Sixty-one percent of respondents usually determine the wine they serve or bring based on suggestions from family or friends.
Thirty-six percent said awards and positive reviews of a wine are helpful in making a selection.
Results are based on a telephone survey of more than 1,000 adults in April 2003 by Opinion Research Corp.