Some Tips On Wine Buying In A Restaurant


Defined Tag: Buying Wine.

It can be a daunting process when buying wine by the bottle in a restaurant, especially if you have never done so before. To start with you what happens is that you will be given a list to choose from.  Then you will be shown the unopened bottle to make sure it is the one that you ordered.  The next step is examining the cork.  Not all restaurants will do this stage but many will. Once this is done and you are happy then you will be give a small amount to try.  Then of course after that your glasses will be filled.

Tips For You To Take Note

If you are unsure with what to order in the first place, ask the drink steward to recommend something that complements your entrees. Specify a price range if you want. It is far preferable to say "I want one that enhances these dishes and is in the $40 per bottle range," than to be intimidated into simply pointing at the list and ordering a $200 bottle.

Examine the bottle when it arrives. Make sure it is the wine you ordered. If not, confirm the order with your server and ask for the proper one to be brought out. If it is the correct one, then return the bottle to the server and ask for him to proceed. You just passed your first test.

The server will present you with the cork, and wait expectantly. The cork is not to be smelled. That stereotypic gesture seems to happen only in films. Most sources recommend that you either examine the cork for damage, or do nothing at all with it. If you notice the cork to be crumbling or in poor shape, politely point out your concern and ask for a well-corked bottle. You just passed the second test.

The steward will pour a small amount for you to taste. Swirl it gently in the bottom of the glass and smell the aroma. If it smells like wet cardboard, or other wet things such as dogs or socks, swirl it again and smell. If the smell goes away (or there was none), take a taste. If it tastes bad or contains lots of particles, express your concern and ask for a different bottle. Otherwise, politely ask the steward to pour it for the rest of your party.

You have every right to expect good behaviour and attitude from the waiter who is serving you so do not tolerate any nonsence.  You are paying top dollar to be served and they are employed to serve you.  If you are not happy with the beverage then do not be affraid to send it back. Nobody knows what your bottle will taste like until it has been tasted.  Just because it may be expensive and have a good name does not mean it cannot be bad.  If it were your food that was bad you would not hesitate to send it back.  Now that you have had a small lesson in wine buying from a restaurant go and put your lessons into practice.  Good luck.