“What is the best time to make a toast during a meal?”

At first glance, it might seem like a trivial question, but in reality, it is not at all. Choosing the right moment to toast is essential to make the toast truly special and convivial. Because there is nothing more beautiful and elegant than a toast made at the right time.

Unfortunately, this is a detail that is too often overlooked.

So, what is the ideal time to raise a glass?

We are here to help you discover when you should toast during a lunch or dinner. Here is the definitive guide, with practical advice for raising a glass at the right time.

When to toast during a meal? Here's what the Wine Etiquette says ...

According to the Wine Etiquette, not all moments are the same: during a lunch or dinner, there are moments that are better suited to a toast. They are more elegant and appropriate than others. Knowing and recognizing them not only helps to make a good impression, but is also one of the keys that distinguishes a successful toast from a failed one. In short, choosing the right moment to raise the glasses is a small detail that can make a big difference.

Now we are ready to reveal the most suitable moments in which to toast during a meal.

These are indications valid for any type of toast: to celebrate a milestone, a particular event or a special anniversary, on the occasion of a holiday, to pay homage and honor a person or a group of people, or, simply, to celebrate the moment and 'being together'.

According to the Wine Etiquette, the perfect toast is made twice during the meal, at two different times.

The two best times to make a toast are:

1️⃣ At the beginning of the meal

According to the Wine Etiquette, the beginning of the meal is one of the two most suitable moments for making a toast.

Why?

Because this is the moment when diners' attention is at its peak. Moreover, the toast made at the beginning of the meal has enormous symbolic value: it is an opportunity to create connection and a sense of togetherness, as well as establishing the right convivial spirit. It is the ideal moment to highlight what one is celebrating for, but it also helps to release that ‘initial tension’ and remove that veil of rigidity that often accompanies the beginning of every meal. Toasting in the first phase not only marks the beginning of conviviality, but also plays a key role in setting the right mood for the rest of the lunch or dinner.

In short, the beginning of the meal is perfect for the toast because:

● it immediately emphasises the reason for the toast

● makes guests feel welcome and considered

● reinforces the sense of sharing and unity

● creates a serene and jovial atmosphere that accompanies the entire meal

The ideal moment for a toast at the beginning of the meal is when each diner has been served their first glass of wine. It can be during the aperitif or starter, or before the initial course of the meal. It is essential to wait until everyone is ready, with the glass filled, so that no one feels left out and everyone is involved.

Recommended wines: a dry Italian sparkling wine, in particular, Prosecco, Trento DOC or Franciacorta.

2️⃣ At the end of the meal

According to Wine Etiquette, the end of the meal is the other of the two most suitable moments to make a toast.

Why?

Because, with the courses already served, diners' attention can focus on the toast. Moreover, the final toast represents the symbolic closure of the meal. It is the ideal moment to reinforce why the group of diners has come together. The final toast also serves to express gratitude and to thank the participants. Made at the end of the meal, it leaves a happy impression and memory.

In short, the final part of the meal is perfect for the toast because:

● it allows one to emphasise the reason for coming together

● allows you to thank the participants

● brings the meal to a cheerful end, leaving everyone with a pleasant memory

The ideal time for a toast at the end of the meal is when everyone has finished eating dessert. It is important to wait until everyone is ready, with the glass filled, to ensure that no one feels left out and that everyone can participate. In some cases, the toast can also take place at the moment the dessert is served, before it is consumed. This option is also perfectly valid as it symbolically marks the end of the meal.

Recommended wines: sweet sparkling wines or dessert wines.

What are the times during the meal when you should NOT toast?

According to Wine Etiquette, one should not toast too frequently during a meal. It is enough at the beginning and at the end of the meal. Making too many toasts, such as before each course, can make the gesture trivial or annoying.

In any case, it is advisable to avoid toasting in the middle of a meal.

Why?

One should not toast in the middle of a meal because:

● Breaks the flow of the meal

Between courses, guests are often focused on the dish just served or what they are about to eat. Making a toast at this time risks breaking the continuity of the meal.

● Not everyone is ready

Between courses, some diners may be without wine in their glass or may be absent for a moment. A toast at that moment risks not involving everyone, losing its convivial and inclusive nature.

● Makes the final toast less effective

Making many toasts during the meal makes the ritual lose that character of expectation and rarity, which are key factors in its strength and effectiveness.

However, there are exceptions. Are you familiar with the long, multi-course meals that characterise special events and occasions, such as weddings? Well! On these occasions, a break in the middle of the meal is often planned and necessary. And it is precisely at that moment that a toast can be made - indeed, it can become a pleasant moment of shared happiness.