Tasteful Savings: A Sommelier’s Guide to Ordering Wine with Confidence on a Budget

Don’t let an extensive restaurant wine list intimidate you. Here are some expert tips on how to order a great bottle without exceeding your budget, provided by Baptiste Beaumard, a sommelier from the Michelin-starred Restaurant Daniel in New York.

Let the Sommelier Do Their Job

Take advantage of the sommelier’s expertise. Let them know what you’re looking for and your price range. You don’t need to impress them; their goal is to help you find a wine that fits your taste and budget. Beaumard emphasizes that they will present options at varied price points based on your preferences.

Indicate Your Budget Discreetly

If you prefer to keep your budget hidden from your dining companions, point to a wine bottle in your desired price range. This way, you can set the parameters without verbally disclosing them, while still getting appropriate recommendations.

Ask for Budget-Friendly Options

Don’t hesitate to inquire about the best budget-friendly wines on the list. You can ask the sommelier for recommendations of lesser-known wine regions or producers, which can often lead to delightful surprises that won’t break the bank.

Focus on Specific Sections of the Wine List

Certain sections of the wine list are known for offering excellent value. For instance, sparkling wines outside of Champagne often deliver great quality at a lower price. Lesser-known regions like Savoie, Corsica, or wines from the Mosel region can provide great tasting experiences without hefty costs.

Utilize Wine Apps

While your phone shouldn’t replace the sommelier, apps like Vivino can be useful for checking tasting notes and reviews on wines. Just make sure to use them to enhance your experience rather than solely relying on them, as the sommelier’s insights are often more valuable.

Be Honest About Your Taste

If you taste the wine and find it doesn’t suit your palate, don’t hesitate to communicate this with the sommelier. Most restaurants are willing to replace a bottle if it’s not to your liking. If you’re concerned about being stuck with a wine, order one that is also available by the glass for an easy swap if needed.

Following these simple guidelines can help you navigate a restaurant wine list with confidence, ensuring a pleasant dining experience tailored to your taste and budget.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!