49. How to Order Wine in a Restaurant: A Stress-Free Guide cover art

49. How to Order Wine in a Restaurant: A Stress-Free Guide

49. How to Order Wine in a Restaurant: A Stress-Free Guide

Listen for free

View show details

About this listen

Resources & Links:
Join the newsletter to get updates on new episodes, study tips, classes, and travel opportunities. www.wineeducate.com/newsletter-signup

How to Contact Us:
Email: joanne@wineeducate.com
Website: www.wineeducate.com
Instagram: @wineeducate

In this episode of the Wine Educate Podcast, Joanne shares practical advice for one of the most common wine anxiety moments: choosing a bottle at a restaurant. Whether you're a casual enthusiast, a corporate host, or the designated wine person in your friend group (because you took one WSET class!), this episode is for you.

What’s in This Episode:

  • Bottles > Glasses (Most of the Time):
    Why ordering by the bottle is often better for a group—and more economical.

  • The Sommelier Is Your Friend:
    How and why to talk to the som ahead of time if you’re hosting a dinner or corporate meal. They want to help.

  • Be Mindful of the Group:
    Consider that not everyone will drink, and people may be eating different dishes—versatile wines are your friend.

  • When the Wine List Is Meh:
    If the restaurant list is uninspired or hard to navigate, go for tried-and-true options: Champagne or dry rosé from Provence are nearly always solid choices.

  • Buy Time Gracefully:
    Not ready to decide? Order a glass of bubbles while you peruse the list without pressure.

  • Value Regions to Know:
    Rhone and Loire Valley often offer great wines at great prices—look there if you're unsure.

  • Final Takeaway:
    Wine is about enjoyment. Have fun, trust your instincts, and take a chance—you might discover something new.

Thanks for Listening!
Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with a wine-loving friend. And if you have a question you’d like Joanne to answer on a future episode, just reply to the newsletter or leave a voice message!

No reviews yet