Let’s be honest: Ordering at a wine bar can be an overwhelming experience for some people. There’s too much pressure to get the order language right and not embarrass yourself in front of your colleagues, friends, family, or your date for the night by picking the wrong wine. 

But don’t worry. For your next visit, we have got you covered. Browse through the tips below to get your order right at any wine bar.

Curated from our experience, these tips will help you feel more at ease at a wine bar.

How to Order at a Wine Bar?

Let’s be honest: Ordering at a wine bar can be an overwhelming experience for some people. There’s too much pressure to get the order language right and not embarrass yourself in front of your colleagues, friends, family, or your date for the night by picking the wrong wine. 

But don’t worry. For your next visit, we have got you covered. Browse through the tips below to get your order right at any wine bar.

Curated from our experience, these tips will help you feel more at ease at a wine bar. 

 

5 Tips to Order Wine Like a Pro at a Wine Bar

 

1. Browse Through The Whole Wine List

As soon as you take your seat at the wine bar, you’ll likely be handed their wine list. You don’t have to feel overwhelmed with all the names, especially if you’re new to the world of wine. 

Start by scanning the menu list with all the options. Many wine bars have a small one-liner description for each wine that will give you an idea about what region, notes, and other important characteristics of a wine. That should make the selection easier. 

Better yet, many wine bars prefer categorising the wine menu by region, such as French, Californian, Italian, etc. or by type (Red, White, or Sparkling). Typically, even novice wine enthusiasts can easily distinguish between wines of different regions and categorically say which ones they like or dislike. This should also make it easy to narrow down your options. 

2. Ask For Recommendations From the Staff

Do not be hesitant to ask for help from your sommelier or bartender. They know the wine list in and out, and they’re there to help — not judge. 

Wine bar staff are typically quite passionate about wines and love sharing their knowledge when asked. So don’t hesitate! 

Here’s how you can phrase your request: “I usually enjoy sparkling wines, but I’m in the mood to try something new. Can you suggest what would be the best pick from your wine list?” 

Another way to approach this could be: “I’m planning to have a fish platter. Which wine would go the best with it?” 

Of course, you’d need to know a little about your own preferences to receive the best recommendations. That’s why following the next tip is super important. 

 

3. Be Specific About Your Taste  

Your sommelier or bartender can only help you find the perfect wine when you are specific. 

You don’t have to use fancy wine lingo to describe your taste, but give them something to go off of. For instance, you can say, “I like fruity wines, but not very sweet ones. Can you recommend something that matches this?.” This should do. 

Based on this info, they will give you your best matches. They might also introduce you to something new that matches your description as well. 

4. Consider Pairing Options 

Wine bars offer appetisers or small palettes that pair the best with different types of wines. Consider what food you want to eat to make your choice of a wine easier. 

For example, if you’re planning to order the cheese platter, you might want to go for a red wine. Similarly, a crisp white wine pairs best with seafood. 

The rule of thumb for wines is that rich foods are best paired with bold wines, whereas light food options should be paired with light wines.

5. Try Something New

Wine bars are a perfect place to try a wine you’ve never had before, so don’t be shy! Take this as an opportunity to dive deeper into the world of fine wines, and you may just discover your new favourite. 

The best part is that many wine bars offer small pours of different wines for you to try without committing to a full glass. You can also request a sample if you are unsure about a wine’s flavour profile not matching yours.

Not sure where to start? The house wine. Either you’ll get to taste the establishment’s most popular wine or a special variety that’s locally-made. Either way, win-win. 

Ultimately, ordering wine should be a fun experience and not stressful. Approach it with an open mind, and you’re sure to have a delightful experience. Who knows, you might just discover a wine you’ll grow to love.

 

Visiting Bali and Searching For the Best Wine Bar? 

If you’re in Bali, we’d love to have you around at Belle Wine Bar. From Bali’s local taste to international favourites, our selection of wines is bound to appeal to you. 

Come visit us to experience wine like it should be experienced.