Common Wine-Ordering Mistakes at Restaurants Revealed by a Sommelier

Navigating a restaurant’s extensive wine list can be daunting. The sheer volume of choices and intricate details often leaves diners feeling unsure.

Avoid Selecting Wines Available at Your Neighborhood Store

Sommeliers meticulously craft unique wine selections for a reason. If you find a bottle that's easily accessible at any supermarket, consider trying something else.

Dining out is an opportunity to venture into uncharted wine territories. Opt for a novel grape variety, a lesser-known wine producer, or a region you haven't explored yet.

For instance, instead of the familiar Tuscan reds, why not explore a pinot noir from Oltrepò Pavese? La Genisia is a name to look out for in Italian restaurants.

Exploring Beyond Your Go-To White Wines

Chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, and pinot grigio are classic favorites that many default to. However, if you're feeling adventurous, Italy offers an array of hidden gem white wines well worth considering.

Italy boasts over a thousand indigenous grapes. Notable regions like Sicily, Collio, and Lugana offer exciting choices on any wine menu.

In Sicily, watch for brands like Planeta and Monteleone. Collio features top producers such as Primosic, and in Lugana, Ottella and Selva Capuzza are prominent.

The Allure of Major Wine Regions

While regions like Bordeaux in France and Napa Valley in the U.S. are prestigious, their wines often carry hefty price tags.

For budget-friendly alternatives, consider exploring nearby regions. Cahors, adjacent to Bordeaux, is renowned for malbec wines, with Crocus Wines being a good option.

In search of Napa-like wines at a more reasonable price, explore the Anderson Valley in Mendocino, featuring producers such as Goldeneye Winery and Husch Vineyards.

Rethinking Full-Bodied, High-Alcohol Red Wines

Many American wine enthusiasts lean towards bold red wines. However, these are often served too young at restaurants, which can diminish their quality.

Opting for lighter reds that are drinkable upon bottling can be a refreshing solution. Varieties like gamay, Cinsault, and valdiguié are excellent alternatives.

Some standout options include gamay by Camins 2 Dreams, Cinsault from Two Shepherds, and valdiguié by J. Lohr.

On hot days, enjoy these wines slightly chilled. Ask your sommelier to ice the wine for a short while as you decide on your meal.

By the time you're ready for appetizers, your wine will be at its optimal serving temperature.