5 Tips for Confidently Ordering Wine at a Restaurant
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When it comes to dining out, ordering wine can feel like a daunting task. You’re handed a wine list that might be as long as a novella, filled with names and regions you’ve never heard of. If you’re like many people, you might wonder, “Will the waiter judge me if I pick a cheaper wine? What if I don’t even like the one I order?” I’ve been there, too. But here’s the truth: ordering wine doesn’t have to be intimidating, and it certainly doesn’t have to break the bank.
Let me share five simple tips to help you feel confident the next time you’re ordering wine at a restaurant. These are practical, easy-to-follow steps that will take the stress out of the process so you can focus on enjoying your meal (and your wine!).
1. Know the Style of Wine You Like
First things first: know what you like. This step is key because it gives you a starting point when you’re staring at that extensive wine list. Are you a fan of a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, or perhaps a light Pinot Noir? Knowing your preferences will help you narrow down the choices.
If you’re unsure, think about wines you’ve enjoyed in the past. For example, do you gravitate toward wines that are dry or slightly sweet? Do you prefer red over white? Take a moment to jot these down or keep a note in your phone.
Pro Tip: Most wine lists will have a section for tasting notes, so you can look for keywords like “crisp,” “fruity,” or “full-bodied” to guide your decision. If you want to learn more about different wine styles, check out this helpful guide from Wine Folly.
2. Ask the Sommelier or Waiter for Suggestions
Here’s a little secret: sommeliers and waitstaff genuinely want you to enjoy your wine. It’s part of their job! Don’t be afraid to ask for help. A simple, “I’m looking for a light white wine to go with my fish” or “Do you have a medium-bodied red that’s not too expensive?” will go a long way.
Be honest about your preferences and price range (we’ll discuss this more soon). A good sommelier isn’t judging you; they’re trying to match you with the perfect wine for your meal and your tastes.
Pro Tip: If there’s no sommelier, most servers will still be able to help. Just make your request clear and don’t overthink it. Trust me, they’ve answered every question under the sun!
3. Know Your Price Point Ahead of Time
Let’s get one thing straight: there is no shame in choosing a wine that fits your budget. A $40 bottle doesn’t automatically taste better than a $20 one. Price often reflects factors like production scale, branding, and regional demand, not necessarily quality.
Before you even sit down, have a general idea of what you’re comfortable spending. When the server asks if you’d like to order wine, you can say something like, “I’m looking for a great white wine in the $40 range.” This takes the guesswork out of the equation and puts you in control.
If you’re dining with others and feeling unsure about discussing price, you can point to a wine on the list within your range and ask, “How does this compare to the others?” The staff will usually guide you without making it awkward.
Pro Tip: Restaurants often mark up wine prices, so if you’re curious about why a bottle costs what it does, this article breaks it down.
4. Pair the Wine with Your Food
Pairing wine with food can elevate your entire dining experience, but it doesn’t have to be overly complicated. If you know what you’re planning to eat, look for wines that complement the flavors.
White wines often pair well with lighter dishes like fish, chicken, or salads.
Red wines shine with richer dishes like steak, pasta, or anything tomato-based.
Rosés and sparkling wines are incredibly versatile and can complement a wide range of foods.
If you’re unsure, ask your waiter for recommendations or do a quick scan of the menu before you arrive to get a sense of what might work. Another great tip is to match the weight of the wine to the weight of the dish: a light wine for a light dish, and a heavier wine for a richer dish.
Pro Tip: Some restaurants include food pairing suggestions directly on the menu.
5. Explore Wines by Region
Many restaurants organize their wine lists by region, which can be incredibly helpful. If you already have a favorite wine region, like Napa Valley or Tuscany, start there. Wines from regions you know and love are a safe choice because you’re likely familiar with their flavor profiles.
Feeling adventurous? Try something new! If you’ve always stuck to California wines, why not explore something from Argentina or New Zealand? Regional wines often showcase unique characteristics that can surprise and delight your palate.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for their favorite picks from a specific region. It’s a great way to discover hidden gems.
Bonus Tip: Relax and Enjoy the Experience
At the end of the day, wine is about enjoyment. Whether you’re sipping a $15 glass or sharing a $200 bottle, the point is to have fun and make memories. Don’t let the fear of making the “wrong” choice hold you back. Every wine experience is a chance to learn and grow your confidence. Make sure to grab your $20 off coupon at wine.com at the end of this post.
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Cheers!
Courtney