When on a date, you’d think nerves would begin to cool once the wine selection had been made, but for many, the real stress kicks in as the waiter approaches your table with your wine in hand. But there’s absolutely no reason to sweat the tasting. Just remember these three easy steps and you’ll look like a pro:
LOOK AT THE LABEL – When your server first brings the wine to your table, he or she will show you the bottle’s label. Double check that the bottle about to be opened is indeed the bottle you ordered. Sometimes the restaurant will be out of the wine you ordered and bring you a substitution. Usually, the waiter will alert you if this happens, but it’s always a good idea to speak up if you’re not sure you’re getting the wine you ordered. We all know mistakes happen, but once you approve and begin enjoying the wine your waiter opens, you are obligated to pay for it.
LEAVE THE CORK –, After your server opens the bottle, you will be presented with the cork. There’s nothing you need to do with it, simply leave it on the table where the waiter places it. In case you’re wondering, servers present the cork for inspection because by squeezing the bottom end of the cork, a little of the wine can be sniffed to be sure it smells like wine and does not have the moldy odor of tainted cork. Also, the pros can look to see if there is any indication that any wine has seeped out of the bottle. The real proof, though, is in the aroma and flavor of the wine itself – so just let your personal taste be your guide.
TASTE IT TOGETHER – Tasting the wine with your date is a great way to use wine to your dating advantage. Ask the waiter to also pour a taste for your companion after he or she pours yours. This way you both have a chance to try the wine and can give your approval together. If you like, swirl the glass and give it a whiff – research indicates that 70 to 75 percent of what we taste is actually due to our sense of smell. Now take a sip. As long as the wine doesn’t smell or taste like vinegar, rotten eggs or wet cardboard, indicate to your waiter that the wine is acceptable with a small nod or a simple, “thank you.” However, if you notice a foul flavor or aroma in the wine, alert your waiter and ask for another bottle.
The more types of wine you sample, the more developed your tasting skills will become. Luckily, restaurants are responding to wines growing popularity by offering a greater selection and unusual wines by the glass and tasting “flights”. A flight is typically three to four smaller pours of wine selected because of a unifying quality, such as type of wine or country of origin. Enjoying a variety of wine in smaller portions allows you to discover more quickly which wines you like best than if you order by the bottle. It also gives you and your date more fodder for conversation.
No matter which wines you try, remember to have fun broadening your wine horizons and picking new favorites. Wine tasting isn’t about being professional and poised, but rather about experimenting with new things and savoring the experience with the people around you. So whether you are buying by the bottle or sampling a few glasses, just remember to relax. Wine is meant to be enjoyed.
Courtesy of Wine Market Council. For more information, visit www.wineanswers.com