How to choose Wine on a Date

There’s really only one thing that you need to remember about ordering wine; it should taste wonderful! It’s really that simple. It’s too bad that for a lot of people the simple act of ordering wine is an ordeal, which can take most of the enjoyment out of drinking it.

First things first; don’t invent an expertise where none exists. In other words, it’s okay if you’re not an expert in wines. Most people, your date included, know only what they like, but know very little about wine in general. Pretending to know more than you do will make you appear insecure and more than a bit obnoxious.

Ask your date what he or she wants. Are you practically a sommelier? Just because you know about wine doesn’t mean your date’s opinion doesn’t matter. Before placing an order, be sure to ask him or her about any preference on the wine. An “I would love to try the 2001 Rioja. Do you mind if I order it?” is just fine.

Know what you like. Even if you like wine in general, it’s common to feel a little awkward when it’s time to choose something for somebody else. However, if you have a good idea of what you like, it becomes so much easier. Spend some time buying and drinking wine at home, and develop an idea of some of the countries or regions of wine you might like, or at least the grapes. If you know a few types of red and a few types of white you always like, you’ll always be prepared.

Resist the urge to order the most expensive wine on the menu in the hopes that your date will be impressed. Chances are he or she will just be uncomfortable. You don’t have to order the cheapest bottle either; feel free to go up in price. Just realize that at a certain point your date’s opinion of you may go from ‘impressed’ to ‘what a showoff!’!

If you want to appear comfortable and stress-free when ordering wine, go for the house wine. No, it doesn’t make you look stingy; just make sure you ask your date how he or she feels about your choice. “I’m not choosy when it comes to wine. The house white looks good, what do you think?” will do just fine.

There’s nothing wrong with asking for a bit of help; after all, that’s what the waiter is there for. Most good restaurants will make sure that their staff knows which wines are suitable for the dishes they serve. “We’re planning to order the seafood pasta, can you suggest a good white wine to accompany that?” will make you look poised and full of self confidence, yet not afraid to ask for help when needed.

Let’s face it, life is just far too short to spend much time worrying about impressing your date with your wine knowledge. Being relaxed about the whole process means your date will be relaxed too; and you can spend the time enjoying each other’s company.