How to order wine at a restaurant
If you ever feel intimidated by the wine list at a restaurant, we’ve got you covered. Our Big House Head of Operations has some top tips on how to navigate the menu and order the best glass – or bottle – for you.
Choosing the right wine for the right occasion and to suit your taste can be daunting. At our Big Houses we like to take away the traditional rules and encourage you to explore the menu by style and taste. The only rule is to sit back and enjoy what you’ve chosen.
If you need a bit more guidance, Oliver, our Big House Head of Operations has some failsafe advice.
- If you know what you like, stick to your guns. That way you won’t feel overwhelmed by what is on the menu.
- If you feel like trying something new, look for unusual grapes or regions – if they’ve made it to the menu they are probably worth a try!
- Take your time to choose the right wine for you, study the menu as much as you like. Why not order an aperitif whilst you decide?
- If you are eating, take a look at the food menu to consider what you might choose and what you think you might enjoy to drink alongside the dish. There are no longer any rules related to wine – you can drink white with beef, or red wine with fish
- Don’t be afraid to start a conversation with the restaurant team – they are all trained to be able to help you as best as they can. Let them know your budget, your likes and dislikes and your plans for food and they will be able to guide you on the right wine for you.
- Ask the team what they like, what do most people have alongside this dish and, if you’re brave, what do they think more people should try.
- If you’re not sure whether you will like something or not ask the team if you can try the wine first, this isn’t always available but if the wine is sold by the glass the likelihood is they will say yes.
Finding out what you like in the world of wine isn’t easy, but hopefully, these little tips might help you get there.