Ordering Wine in French Restaurants

Ordering wine in a French restaurant can be a delightful experience when you know the right phrases and etiquette. This guide will help you navigate the wine list and communicate your preferences with confidence.

Essential Phrases for Ordering Wine

Asking for the Wine List

• "La carte des vins, s'il vous plaît." (The wine list, please.)

Requesting Recommendations

• "Pouvez-vous me recommander un vin?" (Can you recommend a wine?)
• "Quel vin suggérez-vous avec ce plat?" (What wine do you suggest with this dish?)

Specifying Preferences

• "Je préfère un vin rouge/blanc/rosé." (I prefer a red/white/rosé wine.)
• "Avez-vous un vin léger/corsé?" (Do you have a light/full-bodied wine?)

Understanding Wine Descriptions

Common Terms

• Sec (Dry)
• Doux (Sweet)
• Fruité (Fruity)
• Boisé (Woody)
• Tannique (Tannic)

Example Usage

"Je cherche un vin rouge fruité et peu tannique." (I'm looking for a fruity red wine with low tannins.)

Ordering by the Glass or Bottle

• "Je voudrais un verre de..." (I would like a glass of...)
• "Nous prendrons une bouteille de..." (We'll take a bottle of...)

Tasting Etiquette

When the sommelier brings your wine:

1. Observe the label
2. Smell the cork (if offered)
3. Watch the pour
4. Swirl and smell
5. Taste and approve: "C'est parfait, merci." (It's perfect, thank you.)

Remember, practice makes perfect. Don't hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification. Most French waiters appreciate customers who show interest in their wine selection.