Elevating Beverage Standards By Thinking Outside the Box
Selecting the perfect wine for a guest is an obsession of mine. Hitting that right balance of what
is best for the guest, and what will work well with their meal is always a challenge, but one that I
get excited about. After all, creating experiences is what keeps people coming back for more.
Education is also of the utmost importance, but it goes deeper than one would think!
Understanding your guest, listening, and reading their body language is a good place to start.
When I am speaking with my guests, I am sensitive to their responses, while trying to decide
who is willing to be adventurous in their selections. When I say adventurous, I am referring to
the guest that is willing to step outside of the box, and trusts their hospitality pro to point them in
the right direction. We are also very lucky to be exposed to so many different types of wines
these days! I often look to the old world for inspiration, as there are so many intriguing varieties,
with narratives that are steeped in history. Not just that, but many old world varieties are
traditionally meant to go with food, and as they say, if it grows together, it goes together.
One way that I help a guest decide whether they would like to try something new, is to compare
it to something that they already know. What do they normally like to drink? What do they like
about their favorite wines? Sometimes I will even inquire about budget. There are many
varieties that have structure, fruit and aromatic profiles that can be compared to more familiar
varieties, which allows for ample pairing opportunities and creativity! The organic conversation
with your guest will help to gain answers and trust.
Italy is a country that I often turn to, for diverse and/or value-driven wines. There is literally
something for everyone, with grapes that are grown in almost every climate all around the
country. There are even several sparkling wine options throughout Italy. From the more serious
Champagne method Franciacorta, to Prosecco, which can also provide a range of everyday to
more serious examples. Looking for something even more compelling? Greece is becoming
increasingly present in the world of wine, with a rich history that provides incredible talking
points, with wines from the islands in the Aegean Sea, to the cooler northern part of the country.
With all of the different wines and food that we have available to us these days, why not try
something new? We are so incredibly lucky to have so many interesting options before us these
days. Try something different the next time you have the chance, you could be opening yourself
up to a whole new world!