Wine Questions Every Bartender Should Be Able To Answer

By Laura DePasquale, Master Sommelier, Senior Vice President, Sales & Commercial Operations, Artisanal Wine Division

You don’t have to be a wine geek to speak confidently about wine. But it would help if you had answers to basic FAQs so you don’t get stumped by your customers. Here are some of the most common questions asked about wine and expert guidance on answering them. Q: What’s your driest wine? A: Often this means the customer doesn’t want anything sweet and may also be looking for something healthier, low calorie, or organic. This is an opportunity to ask more questions. Be familiar with a variety of lighter-bodied, dry white wines, like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio.

Q: What’s your biggest, boldest red? A: You should know the basic flavor profiles of the most popular categories of red wines on your wine list, from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to Pinot Noir and Syrah.

Q: Do you have Champagne by the glass? A: Make sure you know the difference between Champagne, Prosecco, and other sparkling wines. There is a difference! If you don’t have Champagne by the glass, offer a different bubbly alternative. Many wine lists carry Champagne in half bottles (375ml.) This is an excellent option for couples.

Q: Is this Chardonnay oaked? A: There’s no universal labeling for oaked and unoaked, but clues lie in tasting notes, as oaked Chardonnays might be described using words like “toast” or “vanilla” and unoaked Chardonnays described as “crisp” or “refreshing.” Even if you don’t know the specific answer, you’ll know what the customer is talking about.

Q: What do you have that’s not too high in alcohol content? A: Remember, some wines are boozier than others, so make sure you recommend a Pinot Grigio or Riesling here and not a Merlot. You can always simply check the wine labels for their alcohol by volume (ABV).