7 Basics of Wine Etiquette

Wining and dining at business functions serves a great purpose. How you conduct yourself can impact your path to the C-suite.

Are you following the “rules?”

Kyla Cox, founder of Savor Wine Boutique in Atlanta recommends following these easy steps when selecting wines.

Preparation is key.
Cox advises to be prepared, “Look at the wine list before heading to the restaurant. Many restaurants have their wine lists available online.  Check in with the restaurant beforehand and plan ahead.”

Follow your host’s lead.
Not sure whether or not you should order a drink? Take your cue from the host. If she is drinking, go ahead. But, if your host is passing on alcohol, you should too.

Ask your superiors.
If they haven’t taken the lead already, it’s always best to ask your superiors first if they would like to select the wine. If they choose not to, be prepared to make the selection yourself.

Rely on staples.
When in doubt, play it safe. A Malbec from Argentina or a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand are sure to please a variety of palates.

Mix it up.
If meals are varied, be sure to select a red and a white wine.  “Avoid wines that are too bold or too sweet and choose wines that are light to medium in taste”, says Cox.

Ask the sommelier.
It’s perfectly OK to ask your sommelier for their recommendation.

Be confident.
Ordering wine and having knowledge of wine can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be.  “Selecting a good wine is a matter of personal taste,” says Cox.  Let your personal preferences be your guide.

What’s your go-to wine during business dinners? Tell us!

BONUS PINK Link: Is your workplace etiquette up to par? Find out if you’re right or rude.

By Angelica Sereda

“If you get, give. If you learn, teach.” Maya Angelou