
Should You Taste the Sample Pour? Sommelier Etiquette Explained
Dreading the pre-dinner swirl-and-sip? Here’s when to taste, when to trust your somm, and how to spot flaws—without killing the table vibe.

Dreading the pre-dinner swirl-and-sip? Here’s when to taste, when to trust your somm, and how to spot flaws—without killing the table vibe.

Unsure about tasting that sample pour? Here’s why servers present the bottle, when it’s fine to skip the sip, and how to ask for a somm check.

Wine Spectator spotlights the Vcanter, a striking decanting cradle for large-format bottles. Why it matters, how to use it, plus smart alternatives.