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Step 1
Ask your server to see the wine list if you haven't been presented with it. If you simply ask what kind of wine the restaurant serves, some servers may only give you a verbal rundown. You can make a better selection if you are able to view all the choices.
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Step 2
Look at the prices first. The prices help you determine how the wine list is structured. If the list is divided by wine region (California, France, Italy, etc.) and the list goes from least expensive to most expensive in each region, it is simply structured by price.If the list is divided by whites and reds and the wines aren't listed by price, you are likely looking at a progressive wine list. These restaurant wine lists order the wines from milder to stronger so that both customers and servers can have an idea about wines they are unfamiliar with.
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Step 3
Choose moderately priced wines at finer restaurants unless you're not concerned with the bill at all. Fine restaurants should have all good wines on the wine list. They should have carefully chosen the wines with concern for their diners' experience, and if this is the case, even moderately priced wines will be good quality.
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Step 4
Choose the more expensive wines at a chain restaurant. Chain restaurants usually have a limited wine list and try to keep the prices down on the wines they do offer. The best wine they offer usually will be the most expensive. Many chain restaurants are less concerned with the quality of the wine they offer and know that some of their customers are looking for the least expensive wine no matter how it tastes.
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Step 5
Determine what you would like to eat before ordering your wine. Sometimes this is difficult if the server asks for your drink order immediately. Ask for a glass of water and a few minutes to make your decision. Remember, you're the one paying the bill and you can take your time.
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Step 6
Ask your server, or the sommelier, for suggestions. Tell him what you plan to order and ask what he would recommend that would be a nice complement. Don't feel obligated to take your server's suggestion, but something that is suggested just might strike your fancy.
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Step 7
Order by the glass if you are unsure about an entire bottle. If you order by the glass and you end up not liking the wine, you'll only be out a few dollars. If you order the bottle, you're stuck with it. Ordering by the glass also allows everyone at the table to choose a wine to enjoy with his meal choice. Not all wines on a wine menu are available by the glass, but most menus will make it clear which ones are.
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Step 8
Ask for a sample if you're unsure about which wine to choose. Most restaurants will allow the bartender to pour a small sample of the wines that they offer by the glass. This can keep you from wasting your money and introduce you to some wonderful wines.
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Step 9
Take your chances. If you are unfamiliar with every wine on the list, order one that is similar to one you enjoy and give it a try. For example, if you know that you enjoy Australian Shiraz, but you are unfamiliar with the Australian Shiraz's on the menu, order a glass of one you've never had before. You can also ask your server what might be similar to your favorite wine.
