Went to a restaurant and ordered a wine off our beaten path – ’04 Rombauer Zinfandel. Expected the typical Zin, but what we received was so sweet, it almost tasted like a dessert wine. Is there any protocol to this (other than talking to the sommelier ahead of the order), or do we just chalk it up to a bad decision and live with it?
2007-05-09 03:01:52 · 3 answers · asked by mike s 1 in Food & Drink ➔ Beer, Wine & Spirits
Whenever you order a wine "off the beaten path" at the restaurant, you're taking a risk that you may not like it. This is where a good sommelier will try to get a sense of your tastes in wine and also advise you regarding the food and wine pairing with the courses you have ordered.
If the sommelier chooses something for your party, and it really doesn't go over well, then there may be a stronger argument for them to offer you an alternative and not charge for the first bottle.
However, if it's a wine that you have chosen and there is no evidence of spoilage or cork taint, then I think you're stuck with the decision.
It's always a good idea to limit the potential risk if trying something unfamiliar. A restaurant with a strong by-the-glass menu is a good option. Better yet is a wine and tapas bistro which offers a wide by-the-glass selection along with small appetizer sized dishes for pairing.
Anyway, too bad about your Rombauer, being a somewhat expensive way to find out you don't like their style of Zin. Better luck next time.
Cheers!
2007-05-09 07:30:51 · answer #1 · answered by Amuse Bouche 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You could have said something to the sommelier when they came back, politely saying "Is it supposed to taste this sweet?" If the sommelier says yes, it has notes of this and that, then I'd suck it up and say it's interesting, to be nice.
However, a good sommelier often takes pride in their service and pairings and could have replaced it and gotten you something else that was more to your taste
2007-05-09 10:11:11 · answer #2 · answered by chefgrille 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
The reason doesn't matter really. You should mention the fact that the wine is not to your liking to the service staff after your first sip.
More than likely, they'll work on exchanging it with something you like although it's not garanteed. But their tips rides on your satisfaction and most will be more on your side than the houses. And if they do take care of it, be gracious enough to show some appreciation at the end of the meal.
2007-05-09 11:26:13 · answer #3 · answered by minijumbofly 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋