- IF YOU DON'T ENJOY A WINE, SHOULD YOU SAY SOMETHING?
Discussing and sharing wine interests is generally encouraged, especially if you're among a group of wine enthusiasts, although this can vary depending on your situation. Here's what you thought.
"It depends on the location. If you're at a friend's house it's not okay, but if you're at a bar or restaurant, it's more acceptable."
"Yes but be candid and not rude."
"Not for the first glass, but politely refuse if a second is offered."
- SHOULD YOU SMELL a WINE BEFORE YOU DRINK IT?
Absolutely. Experiencing a wine’s aromas is one of the greatest joys of wine tasting, preparing your brain for the flavours to come. You agreed.
"Inhale several times and exhale through your nose."
"Yes. It's part of the enjoyment and appreciation of wine."
"Always!"
- IF GUESTS BRING WINE, SHOULD YOU SERVE WHAT THEY have BROUGHT?
If you’re gifted a wine, it's generally okay to open the bottle for all to enjoy. However, there are exceptions to the rule, as you’ve shared below.
"Serve the wine gifted, but along with a bottle of your own too."
"I think it depends what is being eaten (I wouldn't serve red wine with fish)."
"Yes, but not if they say it's a gift to have later on, or if it's a wine that's not ready to drink."
- WHEN IS IT OKAY TO RETURN WINE?
Sending back wine can be intimidating, although there are situations where it’s necessary – corked or oxidised wine are some instances. Here's what you had to say.
"Return when it's faulty, or if it has been recommend by a sommelier as being something you'd enjoy, and it didn't fit your preferences."
"If sparkling wine is flat, or a wine has been opened for too long and has oxidised."
"Corked, tainted, or an insect is in the wine. Depends on the league of the restaurant, but generally not just because you don't like your own selection."
- HOW MANY WINES SHOULD BE SERVED DURING ENTREE, DINNER, AND DESSERT?
For a multi-course dinner, you may want to consider how many wines you serve your guests. Many suggested one wine with each course, and others as many as your guests desire.
"Ideally one for each course, but depends on what you're eating, and the guests."
"Start with one for each course, and let guests know they are welcome to more. You always want your guests to feel comfortable."
"As many as one would like!"
- WHAT WINES DO YOU NOT SWIRL?
Swirling helps aerate the wine, allowing its character to ignite and present itself. All wine needs movement to come alive, with sparkling styles needing just a delicate swirl – and you agreed.
"I'd swirl them all. Sparkling I swirl more delicately."
"Every wine!"
"I swirl them all."
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