Most likely your French Guest would probably prefer dry wines. (served with the main meal) I wouldn't be afraid to serve him wine that you have chosen! Most wine drinkers love to try something new, and unless he is a real wine snob (they are the worst!) he will probably appreciate your gesture of picking something for the evening. Instead of French wine, why not try something from another European country, for example, a great red wine from Croatia, called Dingac. This wine comes from on of the islands, and is very popular with everyone who visits Croatia. It's a full bodied dry red. You could also buy a good Australian wine, they have wonderful wines. White and red) But being French, I'm pretty sure he would prefer them being dry. I'm sure he will enjoy your choices!

If I were in that situation,I wouldn't even attempt to choose wine for your guest without getting information from the guest first.

There are so many wines available and everyone has their own ideas of what is best, if you are dealing with a really knowledgeable person, it becomes even more difficult.

To avoid an expensive and possibly embarrassing mistake, (Oh, sorry you don't like it, I thought it was a good one, it was expensive..) the best way is to ask which types of wine this person prefers. You can do this through a third party if need be, or directly if you are able to contact him yourself, by phone or e-mail.

Even if you have never met this person before, he can hardly fail to be flattered that you have gone to the trouble of finding out his preferences rather than offering something which his educated palate might consider to be any old plonk!I If you do know him a little, then he will think you a considerate friend. If you know him well then it is even easier.

Whatever type of friend he is, a thoughtful inquiry regarding likes and dislikes should ensure an enjoyable evening.