Wine Snobs…Got A Clue?

“Ah, this wine has a fruity nose, with the hint of cherry and a whiff of Chocolate and a nice satin finish.” That my friend screams out – ‘Wine Snob’. This action could lead to some embarrassing questions about your wine knowledge if you in fact are just faking it.

That was a mouthful I know, and a bit embarrassing from an English grammarian view point, but not as embarrassing as it will be if some one dares asks you, if you know what you’re doing when you’re performing this snobbish ritual.

In the early 20th century, when formal dining out was in it’s hay day, it was or seemed to be chic to check the nose of the wine and test it on your palette. But those days have gone by… And I mean long ago! So for your sake, please don’t ever do that when presented a bottle of wine at your table in a restaurant. Even if you are prompted to do so by the Sommelier or even a friendly waiter trying to score points with your party. Do not and I mean do not do this.

If you do accept the challenge, chances are you and the server will end up at the center of an uncomfortable and awkward moment. So for both of you, just tell the wine Sommelier or server that you are sure the wine will be fine and let them pour and be on their way.

While you manage to restrain yourself, realize that the larger the group the more likely you will experience a wine snob performing the wine swish, swallow and glowing attributes of the wine selection. For they just can’t refrain from describing the chocolate and berry nose, satiny finish and the slight taste of tannin. Just know they most likely don’t really have a clue, it’s all just made up crap.

There’s very little that entertains me in a restaurant more than seeing a pompous ass putting on the dog and pony show when confirming the quality of the wine selected. It’s even more enjoyable if I happen to know the wine he is sampling at the moment and it is an average wine at best. Or even better if it is considered to be less than average.

Present day rules, if such a thing exists, state that it’s best to just select a wine you like and leave it at that. It’s all about the wine drinking experience and enjoying it and time with your friends and family. Realize that your taste is just as well healed as anyone else you are most likely to hang out with or dine alongside. Do you really care if the wine has a hint of Rose’ or some other crazy mixture? Probably not.

Here is a great money saving tip for enjoying wine during a dinner out. Call ahead and ask the restaurant manager if their establishment will allow you to bring your own bottle of wine and just add a corkage charge to your bill. Many upscale restaurants are fine with this practice. That way you really do get to drink a wine you like and not have to pay $20 to $30 or more for a bottle of $12 wine.

Regardless of the steps you take to enjoy your nite out or special gathering, do just that….enjoy yourself and let the wine snobs do their thing and look ridiculous. It will be a much more pleasant experience without going through a dog and pony show over the wine being served.