How to Order Wine in a Restaurant. (And Look like You Know What You Are Doing)

When you go out to dinner at a nice restaurant, do you get intimidated at the thought of ordering wine? My husband and I did, until we picked up a few tips along the way, and finally felt at ease in the process. If you are a little hesitant when it comes to ordering the wine selection, maybe these tips will help.

Choosing Glass or Bottle

This is the first step. For two or more people, usually a bottle will be the better way to go as far as your bill goes. You might be inclined to think ordering by the glass is less expensive, but if each of you has two glasses, it will probably end up being more expensive.

Decide on Red or White

This next decision instantly makes your ultimate selection a bit easier. Generally, choose a white wine for lighter entrees such as chicken, fish, or salads. If you will be having a thick hearty steak, go with a hearty red wine. Light and fruity red wines will go with most foods. If you have a group of people at the dinner, you should order a selection of red and white wine.

Know Your Price Range

You should always have a good idea about the price range you can budget for the wine selection. Do not disregard your budget. You may have regrets later if you do. Keep in mind that restaurants may mark up the price on their house wine, so don't always assume that the house is lowest price. Check the wine list carefully.

Ask

Don't be intimidated about asking your server for suggestions. If you mention a particular wine from the menu that is in your price range, the waiter should hopefully pick up on the hint, and recommend only wines that also fit in that same price category. If your waiter does not get the cue, and proceeds to influence you with higher priced wine choices, do not panic. Just stay firm and order a bottle that does fit in with your wallet.

Mention to your waiter the type of wine you would like to have. If you are looking for suggestions, let the waiter know if a dry white is what you are in the mood for, or a fruity red, for example. Listen to the suggestions, but also go with what you are comfortable with.

Enjoy Being Served

This is the fun part. When the waiter brings you the bottle, there is a general process that goes on. If you are new to ordering wine in fine restaurants, this may seem uncomfortable to you, but don't let it show! Act like you are the wine connoisseur of all time, and enjoy!

First, the server should show you the bottle of wine unopened. This way you can check the label and vintage and make sure it is what you ordered. Even if you already forgot, just nod slightly as if you accept that bottle as the selection you ordered. Of course, if there has been a mistake, let the server know.

Second, the server should open the wine and let you see the cork. Accordingly, you take the cork and ascertain that it is not dry and cracked.

Next, the server will pour just a little of the wine in your glass. The wine expert that you are will subtly smell the aroma of the wine to make sure there are no vinegary or other unacceptable flavors. Then gently swirl and slowly sip, taking your time to taste the wine. If it is acceptable, a slight nod to the server will let him or her know that you approve.

Lastly, the server will pour wine for everyone and return to fill your glass last.

Now you can sit back, relax, and enjoy that glass of wine.