Ever felt put on the spot when someone shoves the wine list into your hands?
There’s nothing better than a long lunch with friends, or an intimate dinner with a loved one, but then . . . there’s the choice of which wine to order.
The waiter hands you a wine list, and even for the seasoned wine drinker, the wine choices can be confusing.
Marco Ventrella, a KWV viticulturist, advises: “Go for wine that you like and enjoy. You can’t go wrong with that. If you don’t know any of the wines, try telling your server what wine you normally like – he will help you make the right choice.”
1. Enjoy the moment
Whether it’s lunch or dinner, there’s no rush. Unwind and enjoy the moment. Remember, there are no strict rules, and these tips are just here to guide you.
2. What’s for dinner?
Certain wines go with specific food. A good starting point is to decide on what you will eat before ordering the wine – this is because some food enhances a flavour.
If you’re eating seafood, a Chenin Blanc would be a perfect match. If you are in the mood for a good piece of steak, then your best call would be a Shiraz.
3. Starting with drinks?
If you prefer drinks before deciding on what to eat, that’s okay. Red and white blends tend to be a popular drink of choice and they pair well with most food.
4. Glass vs bottle
You’ve decided what to drink, but now it’s the glass vs bottle question. If you are in a group, and you all decided on the same wine, go for a bottle, it will cost you less.
5. Take your own
To avoid stress, take a bottle of your favourite wine if the restaurant allows you. Remember to confirm the corkage fee they will probably demand. – FOOD24.COM