You don’t need to be an über oenophile or a sommelier to determine if a wine list is good or not. Whether you’re a frugal diner who enjoys an occasional drink or someone who goes all out for the table, it’s smart to look at your wine options to maximise a dining experience. Next time you dine out at a nice restaurant, the following pointers should help you decipher the intimidating list.

A good wine list should have a diverse range of selections. If the wine director did his or her job, he or she will have prepared the list with loving care. As a person who loves wine, they’ll want you to taste different regions, styles and vintages at varying price points. A lower-tier bottle of wine should be as satisfying as the more expensive.

Ideally, there should be exotic varietals nestled between the more popular ones. If you spot a lot of brands that are sold at your local supermarket, it’s safe to assume the list is not top notch. You’re eating at a nice place - your food should be paired with an elegant wine, not with a generic mass market label. The whole point of eating out is to challenge and try new things.

Another great sign of a comprehensive wine list is the appearance of wine notes on each special region or grape. You’re there to eat, so you don’t have time to read a thick tome. Nevertheless, a few lines of description on what makes that certain type of wine special will help a long way in the decision-making process.

Finally, the wines should pair well with the food on the menu in terms of taste and price. A nice list will offer both red and white choices for each menu item. These choices should also have different note profiles for folks who like try different flavors. If you want something in particular, a well-trained sommelier will steer you to the best wine possible to enhance your meal.

Source: digitalcity.com