HOW TO PRESENT WINE AT THE TABLE

Presentation of a cork fnished wine

1. The order is taken from the hosts right
2. The server repeats the order to the host
3. Proper stemware preceded the bottle to the table
4. Present the bottle label side up to the host and repeat the
name and vintage to confrm the order
5. Capsules are cut below the second lip of the bottle. Remove or
pocket the capsule from the table
6. Bottle lip is wiped twice with a clean napkin or towel, once
before and once after the removal of the cork
7. Remove the cork by inserting the worm of the corkscrew just
off-center in the top of the cork and slowly twisting the worm
into the cork. Stop twisting before the last rotation of the
auger is reached. Lever out the cork gently without causing
a pop.
8. Remove the cork from the corkscrew and place it on an
underline (wine coaster of B&B plate) to the hosts right.
9. Hold the bottle in the right hand with the label visible to the
guest while pouring.
10. Wipe the bottle lip with a napkin/towel after each pour.
11. Pour the host less than one ounce to taste, and after
approval, serve the wine moving clockwise around the table,
women frst, men second, and the host last. If there is a
guest of honor, pour that person frst, then women, then men,
then the host. In parties of eight or more, pour for all guests
in a clockwise direction.
12. If a second bottle of the same wine is ordered, bring a
fresh glass for the host to approve the new bottle. Ask if the
host wants the guests to have fresh stemware. If a new wine
is ordered for the table, set fresh stemware for all guests.
Written with the assistance of the Court of Master Sommeliers.
HOW TO PRESENT WINE AT THE TABLE
Screw Cap Wine Presentation
Replace steps 5-8 with the above guidelines.
5. If the selection is sealed with a screw cap, point this fact out to the
host. This gives the host the opportunity to confrm the order in light
of the new information and allows for discussion of the features and
benefts of the screw cap (see additional comments).
6. Hold the bottle not the capsule sleeve.
7. Twist cap off in a counter clockwise direction. Use a clean napkin /
towel over the top of the cap as its removed. This will take the edge
off the noise.
8. Let the customer know that the cap has some rough edges and it
will be removed from the table, but preserved. Place the cap in
apron pocket. Retain the cap in case the customer does not fnish the
bottle and desires the take the bottle home at the end of the meal
(law permitting).
Written with the assistance of the Court of Master Sommeliers.
Opening Champagne- SAFETY FIRST!
1. Take extreme care and caution when opening Champagne &
Sparkling wine. There is internal pressure on the cork which can
cause it to eject at high speeds.
2. Always open Champagne bottles pointing away from anyone on a
hard surface.
3. Remove the foil covering the wire cage around the cork.
4. Place an open side towel over the bottle and place your thumb over
the cage before loosening it. Once the wire is loose, never release a
frm grip on the cork.
5. Holding the cork tightly, begin turning the bottle. Control the
pressure with your grip, easing the cork out slowly.
6. Never pop the cork.