What to Do with Unliked Opened Wine: Tips and Solutions
Drinking wine is a delightful experience for many, often enjoyed in social settings or on special occasions. However, there are situations where the wine you do open might not meet your expectations. This article explores various scenarios and practical solutions on what to do with opened wine that you don’t particularly enjoy.
Choosing Wine Despite Personal Taste Variations
As a casual drinker, your preferences may not align perfectly with de luxe expectations. Bevan Narinesingh, a wine enthusiast who isn’t too rigid about taste, shares his experiences with a variety of wines. From red and sparkling wines to those from different regions, he has enjoyed most of them. However, he remembers a couple of instances where the wine simply didn't hit the mark.
The red wine from Goa was sweet and not to his liking, but he enjoyed it with his family over an extended period. Conversely, a bottle of sparkling wine in California had to be passed on to friends due to personal preference. These anecdotes highlight that it's perfectly fine to enjoy what you enjoy, and there’s no need to waste wine if it doesn’t suit your taste.
Dealing with Unliked Wine at Home
When you buy wine for personal consumption, there are several practical ways to handle it if you dislike its taste. If you can't consume it, consider offering it to neighbors, giving it to friends, or using it for cooking. These options can turn a potential nuisance into a valuable resource.
Misfortunes Can Happen at Restaurants
However, when wine is purchased for dining out, situations can be a bit more complex. If the wine is corked (meaning it’s contaminated with air), restaurants usually offer a replacement or a different selection of wine without additional charge. If the wine is not corked, ordering a bottle out of the blue based on appearance and price might not be the best idea.
A key point to remember is that your taste in wine has absolutely no correlation with its price. The manager or the waiter might charge for the opened bottle, but there are ways to manage this situation, such as politely requesting a different choice or finding someone else in the restaurant to take it off your plate. The restaurant’s policy on such situations can be very helpful, and a smart manager will typically help you out.
Customer Service and Wine Selection
In many cases, the staff at restaurants are very helpful. They can guide you through the wine selection process and offer suggestions based on your preferences. If you provide feedback promptly, they can often address the issue and provide a better alternative without penalizing you for the opened bottle.
Final Thought
Ultimately, the enjoyment of wine is personal. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just a casual drinker, it’s important to be flexible and open to suggestions. Don't hesitate to voice your concerns to the waiter or manager, and enjoy your next dining experience with the best wine that suits your taste.
Remember, drinking too much alcohol can be harmful, so always drink responsibly!