The bottle presentation

First, the waiter will show you the unopened bottle to check it’s the right wine.Waiters can make mistakes and other times the restaurant will be out of the particular vintage you ordered and will bring another. Simply inspect the label, taking careful note of the vintage. If it is acceptable, nod your approval.

The cork presentation

Now the waiter will open the bottle and present the cork to you. Whatever you do, don’t sniff the cork! Simply look at it, making sure it has not cracked or dried out. When corks dry out they shrink, breaking the tight seal of the bottle which allows air to seep in and ruin the wine. Some whites also leave white crystals on the cork – but this is not an indication of any fault and is perfectly all right.

The smell test

Next the waiter will pour a small splash of wine into your glass and step back. This is your sign to pick up the glass – preferably by the stem so as not to heat the wine – and swirl it around, making it easier to smell. Now poke your nose into the glass and inhale once sharply. Check the aroma, taking special note of any strong, offensive odours that seem out of place (see separate story, Wine Tasting Like a Pro). If unsure, ask the waiter.

The taste test

Now take a small sip of the wine, moving your jaw back and forth to indicate you are spreading the wine evenly across your tastebuds. If you’re satisfied with the quality of the wine, simply turn to the waiter and nod your approval or say, “It’s fine.” The waiter will now decant the wine, if need be, and fill your glass.

Rejecting a bottle

Good restaurants should agree to exchange a bottle of wine for any reason – especially if the quality is doubtful. If you’re trying a wine for the first time, and unsure about it, ask the waiter for his or her opinion before rejecting the bottle.