Tips for Choosing the Perfect Wine at a Restaurant
“Which wine should I order? This is so confusing!” Surely, you’ve asked yourself this question at some point. The Mediterranean cuisine is one of the gastronomies with a strong wine culture, making wine a central element for accompanying meals, dinners, and special occasions. Even if we’re not all experts in this area, here at My Way, we’ve gathered some expert tips to help you choose the perfect wine without complications.
If You’re Unsure About the Wine…
Whether you’re a beginner or an occasional drinker, don’t hesitate to ask the sommelier for advice. You can request a small tasting to start identifying flavors you enjoy. Many restaurants also offer wine pre-tastings before the meal. Take advantage of this opportunity to explore new brands and wine appellations!
Don’t Be Fooled by the House Wine
House wine can be a good option, but it doesn’t always guarantee the best experience. If you’re considering this choice, here are some questions you might ask the waiter:
- Is this wine suitable to pair with (your chosen dish)?
- Which appellation does it come from?
- Could I taste it before deciding?
Remember: if a wine doesn’t convince you, don’t hesitate to say so! The best way to learn is by trying.
Price Isn’t Always the Best Indicator
The most expensive wine isn’t always the best. You should choose a wine that you genuinely enjoy for its flavor, not its reputation or price. If you’d like to explore options without spending too much, ask if there are half-bottles or wines by the glass available, especially if you want to try more than one wine.
Don’t Worry About Pairing
You don’t need to be an expert in pairing to enjoy wine. While certain wines pair better with specific foods, the most important thing is to try and discover your own preferences. If you’d like to delve deeper into the subject, feel free to check out our pairing guide.
Ensure the Wine Is What You Ordered
Although it’s rare, errors or mix-ups in the wine cellar can occur. Request a small tasting to confirm that it’s the wine you ordered and that it suits your taste.
Want to learn how to perform a wine tasting like an expert?
Visit Us at My Way!
These are our 5 tips for choosing a good wine at a restaurant. We hope you find them useful and that they help expand your knowledge of oenology. If you visit us at My Way, we’ll be delighted to present you with the best wines from our menu, along with their different appellations and pairings.