Dining out is a time to explore and discover something new. This can be a grape you’ve never had, a producer you’ve never heard of, or a wine from a new-to-you region. In my recent interview with seasoned sommelier, Rebecca Lawson, I delved into the common pitfalls people encounter when ordering wine at restaurants and how to turn these mistakes into opportunities for delightful discovery.
Rebecca, who works at an upscale restaurant in London, shared her extensive knowledge and passion for the world of wine. Her insights are invaluable for anyone looking to elevate their dining experience by making informed and adventurous wine choices.
Mistake 1: Overlooking Italian Whites
One of the first points Rebecca brought up was the consistent oversight of Italian white wines. “Most people miss out on Italian whites — some of the most underappreciated wines in the world,” she said. As she explained, Italy is often associated with its robust reds like Chianti and Barolo, but its white wines, such as Vermentino, Soave, and Falanghina, offer unique and refreshing profiles that are worth exploring.
“Guests often stick to what they know, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, missing out on these hidden gems,” Rebecca noted. She recommended asking the sommelier for an Italian white that pairs well with your meal. “It can be an eye-opening experience that introduces you to new flavours and textures.”
Mistake 2: Sticking to Popular Regions
Another common mistake Rebecca sees is the tendency to order wines from well-known regions. “Skip wines from popular regions and order bottles from their neighbours instead,” she advised. For instance, instead of opting for a Bordeaux, try a wine from the Loire Valley, or replace your go-to Napa Valley Cabernet with a bottle from Washington State.
Rebecca emphasised that neighbouring regions often produce wines of comparable quality but at a more accessible price point. “These regions are less commercialised, and their wines can offer incredible value and distinct characteristics,” she explained. “It’s about broadening your horizons and discovering the richness of lesser-known areas.”
Mistake 3: Being Overwhelmed by the Wine List
Rebecca acknowledged that the extensive wine lists at many restaurants could be daunting. “I know it can be overwhelming to be handed an extensive wine list at a restaurant. Multiple pages with small print can be an overload of information — anxiety ensues, and you’re not sure what to order,” she said.
Her advice? Don’t be afraid to ask for help. “As a sommelier, I’ve trained to understand all those little details, so you don’t have to,” Rebecca reassured. Engaging with the sommelier can simplify the process and lead to a more enjoyable dining experience. “Tell us what you typically like and let us guide you to something similar but new. It’s what we’re here for.”
Mistake 4: Ignoring the Food Pairing
Finally, one of the most crucial mistakes is ignoring the synergy between food and wine. “People often choose a wine they like without considering how it pairs with their meal,” Rebecca observed. “The right pairing can elevate both the dish and the wine, creating a harmonious dining experience.”
Rebecca suggested paying attention to the restaurant’s pairing recommendations or, better yet, consulting the sommelier. “We can suggest wines that complement the flavours of your dish, enhancing your overall experience.” For example, a high-acid wine like a Riesling might be perfect with a spicy dish, while a rich, tannic red could be ideal with a hearty steak.
Embrace the Adventure
Rebecca’s overarching message was one of exploration and openness. “Dining out is an opportunity to try something new,” she said. “Whether it’s a grape you’ve never had, a producer you’ve never heard of, or a wine from a region that’s new to you, embracing the adventure can lead to delightful discoveries.”
She encouraged diners to step out of their comfort zones and trust the expertise of the sommeliers. “We’re here to enhance your experience and introduce you to the wonderful, diverse world of wine,” she concluded.
Incorporating Rebecca’s insights, next time you find yourself perusing a restaurant’s wine list, remember that it’s more than just a selection of beverages. It’s an invitation to explore, learn, and savour something new. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can transform your dining experience into a memorable culinary journey.
Mohammed Ahmed
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