Hmm, a big part of the industry I work in (hotels), and since I recently created our new wine list, something of interest,
One thing that instantly renders somebody an ignoramus is if they think that their bottle of sparkling white wine is ‘Champagne’.
Champagne = only made in the Champagne region of France. Others can be made the same way, but are not Champagne.
Oh yes, and Cristal is vastly overrated (and overpriced), but it seemed to get our group drunk faster than other Champagnes. My fave is 1995 Dom Perignon, even though it’s basically just posh Moet. The difference in quality and superb texture make it a fine buy.
An excellent red Bordeaux is Chateau Pichon Longueville Baron, 2me Cru, Pauillac 1995. I’ve recently purchased a bottle. If you want to splash out, then Chateau Mouton Rothschild, 1er cru, Paullac 1994 is the way to go. If you can get hold of one of the better ones from Chateau Lafite, then you’re a rich bastard.
For whites, try Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2003 from New Zealand. I guarantee that you’ll be impressed. In fact, if you’re after a good mid-range Sauvignon Blanc, most stuff from New Zealand is a winner.
There are actually some pretty good wines coming out of countries that you wouldn’t normally associate with wine. For example, Mission Hill Pinot Noir from Canada is a good mid-price tipple, whereas Chapel Down sparkling whites from England are better than a lot of Champagnes.
If you’re in a good restaurant, check out the bin ends - they’ll have good stuff that they can’t shift. It doesn’t make you a cheapskate, only a canny buyer (if you know your wines). Also, don’t be afraid to ask the sommelier or head waiter for a recommendation, but only once you’ve decided on what food you’re going to order.
If you’re in a themed restaurant or low-quality restaurant, don’t worry about which wine to order - most likely they’ll all be crap, no matter what the descriptions say. They supply them because they get them cheap and they know they don’t have the clientele to warrant spending the money on decent wine.