Choosing the perfect wine can be a challenge, but with the help of a few insider tips, you’ll be able to order a great bottle of vino. The first step is to learn as much as possible about the wines. A wine list can give you information about the grape varieties, the regions from which they come, and their price points. If you’re unsure about which one to order, the following six tips will help you make the right decision.
Know the menu. Most restaurants have their wine lists online. Before you go to a restaurant, browse the menu online. Check out the wines available and the food and drink pairings they have available. It’s easy to get overwhelmed looking at a wine list, so don’t feel rushed. Instead, take your time to choose the right wine for your meal. If you’re dining alone, you might want to order a bottle for two or three people, and order several bottles instead of one large bottle.
Don’t be shy to let the sommelier know what you’re looking for. Most wine lists are written on tablets or large binders, with the prices listed next to each one. You can ask for a tasting note, or just point to the price range to get an idea of what you’d like. You’ll be surprised by what he or she will suggest, and you can learn about the differences and similarities of different types of wines.