What to Drink on Bonfire Night: English Wine Pairings and Party Ideas

The scent of woodsmoke, the warmth of a roaring bonfire, and the whiz, crackle and shower of fireworks make Bonfire Night one of Britain’s most anticipated celebrations. And if you’re lucky, a clear sky full of stars adds to the magic of the evening.

What better backdrop could there be for a refined autumn dinner party, complete with seasonal dishes, fine English wine, and comforting puddings, before stepping outside to watch the bonfire roar and fireworks burst overhead.

This year, elevate your British Bonfire Night gathering with a touch of sophistication. Forget the supermarket mulled wine. Instead, discover how premium English wines pair superbly with hearty autumnal flavours. In this article, we share menu inspiration, wine pairings, and entertaining tips to help you celebrate Guy Fawkes Night in style.

The Spirit of Bonfire Night

The story behind Bonfire Night dates back to 5 November 1605. Catholic conspirator Guy Fawkes attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and assassinate Protestant King James I, known as the Gunpowder Plot. His arrest was celebrated with bonfires across England, and centuries later, Guy Fawkes Night remains a beloved British tradition.

Today, the focus has shifted from politics to revelry: a night of togetherness, colourful pyrotechnics, and good food. And what better way to raise a toast than with a glass of homegrown English wine, crafted with care and character to match the moment.

What Do You Drink on Bonfire Night?

Many people instinctively reach for mulled wine, spiced cider, or a hot toddy when Bonfire Night rolls around. They’re perfect for sipping outdoors on a chilly November evening. However, those comforting drinks tend to mask flavour rather than celebrate it. For a refined dinner party, choose premium English wines to savour alongside a seasonal menu.

Cool-climate English vineyards produce wines with balance, structure, and vibrant character, making them ideal companions for autumn fare. The natural freshness of English sparkling wines lifts smoky dishes, while the subtle spice and red fruit of English Pinot Noir harmonise with roasted meats and stews.

From the zesty brightness of an English white to the vibrant luxury of a sparkling fizz or a warming, structured red, English wines are a refined, sophisticated choice for your gathering.

What to Serve on Bonfire Night

British Bonfire Night food is all about warmth and comfort: think roasted root vegetables, grilled sausages, and slow-cooked stews. Traditional toffee apples are a fun nod to the festivities, but for an elegant alternative that’s easier to enjoy, try baked spiced apples drizzled with a touch of honey, or poached quinces. Both are beautifully autumnal and perfect with a glass of delicate sparkling wine.

Hearty dishes pair exceptionally with the complexity of English wines. Flame-grilled lamb skewers complement a soft, expressive Pinot Noir, while smoked trout pâté shines alongside an English sparkling brut. The gentle smokiness of the food mirrors the toasty, nutty notes found in some oak-aged Chardonnays. Even a humble jacket potato with butter and herbs becomes something special when enjoyed with a refined English white.

So if you’re wondering what to serve on Bonfire Night, think simple, seasonal, and flavourful as the perfect canvas for showcasing English winemaking at its finest.

Bonfire Night Entertaining Tips

For a memorable evening, balance comfort with elegance:

Serve wines at the right temperature: Keep sparkling and still white wines chilled in an ice bucket to maintain their fresh character, while reds can remain at room temperature so their expressive flavours can shine.

Choose your wine glasses: If you’re planning a party that uses both your house and the garden, skip the delicate flutes and opt for sturdy, stemmed wine glasses.

Set the scene for a cosy evening: Provide blankets for guests if outdoors, or light the fireplace inside for a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Home comforts: Soft lighting, autumnal candles, cushions, and background music can make indoor and outdoor spaces feel inviting.

Further reading: How Do You Store Sparkling Wine Properly?

Dinner Party Menu Ideas

If you’re hosting an indoor supper to celebrate Guy Fawkes Night, keep your dinner party menu ideas seasonal, comforting, and elegant. Here are some ideas:

Canapés: Begin with bite-sized starters — red onion and brie tartlets or bacon and cheese straws — paired with English sparkling rosé.

Starter: Roasted squash soup, creamed goat’s cheese and roast beetroot salad or smoked trout pâté with an elegant English sparkling brut.

Main: Slow-cooked beef, pork shoulder, venison, or mushroom bourguignon with a soft, expressive English Pinot Noir.

Sides: Roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or braised red cabbage — simple, seasonal, and flavourful.

Dessert: Toffee apple tart, poached spiced apples or sticky toffee pudding paired with a sparkling wine or an off-dry white.

English Wine Pairing Guide

Highlight the English wines that bring personality and finesse to your Bonfire Night.

Bolney Bubbly NV (Sparkling Brut): Bright, refined, and quintessentially English — perfect for toasting fireworks.

Bolney Rosé Brut (Sparkling Rosé): Delicate red fruit aromas complement chargrilled dishes.

Bolney Pinot Noir (Still Red): Elegant and expressive with silky texture — perfect for slow-cooked meats.

Bolney Chardonnay (Oak-aged Still White): Toasty and rounded — ideal for creamy starters or fish.

Bolney Winemaker’s Edition Muscaris 2022 (Off-dry White): Honeyed and floral — perfect with lightly spiced desserts.

Bolney Sloe Gin: A warming, fruity after-dinner sip.

A Toast to Bonfire Night and Fine Wine

This Bonfire Night, gather your favourite people, light a fire, and raise a glass of fine English wine to the season. Explore our estate’s wine collection to discover the perfect bottles for your Bonfire Night table.