Don’t let an extensive restaurant wine list intimidate you. Here are some expert tips for ordering a great bottle without overspending, thanks to insights from Baptiste Beaumard, a sommelier at the Michelin-starred Restaurant Daniel in New York.

Trust the Sommelier

Utilize the knowledge and expertise of the sommelier. Share your preferences regarding the type of wine you enjoy and your price range. Beaumard emphasizes that sommeliers want you to feel comfortable and find the right wine rather than pushing an expensive bottle.

Indicate Your Budget Discreetly

You don’t have to verbally state your budget; you can point to a couple of bottles within your price range on the wine list. This communicates your budget subtly while still engaging the sommelier.

Inquire About Budget-Friendly Options

Ask the sommelier for recommendations on budget-friendly wines. There are excellent wines from lesser-known regions that can provide great value, often flying under the radar compared to their more famous counterparts.

Explore Specific Sections of the Wine List

Look for sections that traditionally offer better value, such as sparkling wines that may emulate Champagne without the high price tag. Regions like Spain and Australia, as well as lesser-known French regions like Savoie and Loire Valley, often produce fantastic wines at lower prices.

Leverage Wine Apps

If you have a smart device, don’t hesitate to use wine apps like Vivino or Wine-Searcher to read reviews and tasting notes on the bottles available. However, rely on the sommelier’s expertise for the best guidance when selecting a wine.

Be Honest About Your Preference

When tasting the wine, if it doesn’t appeal to you, let the sommelier know. Many establishments will allow for a bottle to be exchanged if it doesn’t meet your taste, ensuring your overall experience remains enjoyable.

Consider Ordering By the Glass

To reduce the risk of being stuck with a bottle you don’t like, consider choosing a wine that is also available by the glass. This offers you the chance to taste it first and ensures that the restaurant can use the opened bottle for other guests if needed.

By employing these strategies, you can confidently navigate a restaurant wine list and find a bottle that complements your meal and suits your budget.