Urgent Tips from Sommelier on Ordering Wine at Restaurants

UPDATE: Wine ordering anxiety just got a major upgrade! Baptiste Beaumard, a renowned sommelier at New York’s Michelin-starred Restaurant Daniel, reveals exclusive insights on how to choose the perfect wine at restaurants, especially in high-pressure situations.

As dining out becomes more popular, many guests feel overwhelmed when selecting a bottle of wine in a fine dining environment. The latest guidance from Beaumard emphasizes the importance of using your resources effectively—especially when it comes to using wine apps like Vivino.

“Sometimes people are intimidated if it’s the first time they’re speaking with a sommelier,” says Beaumard. He reassures diners that the role of a sommelier is to enhance the dining experience by connecting them with wines that suit their taste and budget, not just to push the most expensive options.

Urgent Advice for Wine Selection:
1. **Utilize the Sommelier**: If your restaurant has a sommelier, take advantage of their expertise. Be honest about your preferences and budget. “I will always tailor my recommendations based on what guests share,” Beaumard insists.

2. **Communicate Your Budget**: You can discreetly indicate your budget by pointing to bottles in your price range. This simple gesture allows you to navigate the wine list without stating your budget aloud.

3. **Ask for Budget-Friendly Options**: Don’t hesitate to inquire about the best value wines. Familiar regions like Champagne and Burgundy are renowned, but lesser-known regions may offer excellent choices at a fraction of the price.

4. **Explore Lesser-Known Wines**: Beaumard encourages diners to explore wines from regions such as Savoie, Corsica, and Loire Valley. “Spanish and Australian wines can also provide great value,” he adds.

5. **Leverage Wine Apps Wisely**: Apps like Vivino can help you scan menus and read reviews, but Beaumard advises using them as a supplementary tool, rather than a primary source. “Start with the wine list and consult the app if needed,” he recommends.

6. **Be Honest About Your Preferences**: If the wine isn’t to your liking after tasting, don’t hesitate to speak up. Many restaurants will replace an open bottle if it doesn’t meet your expectations. Beaumard reassures diners, “It’s not a big deal to change a bottle, even after it’s open.”

7. **Opt for Bottles Sold by the Glass**: To minimize the risk of being stuck with a wine you dislike, consider ordering a bottle that is also available by the glass. This allows you to taste it first and switch if it doesn’t suit your palate.

As dining experiences evolve, it’s clear that the stigma around using wine apps at restaurants is fading. Embracing technology while relying on expert advice can lead to a more enjoyable dining experience.

Stay tuned for more expert tips from wine professionals to enhance your culinary adventures!