Dinner at a fancy restaurant. Have you ever been given a long wine list and found yourself breaking out in a cold sweat as you read the list of letters? ``I don’t really understand, but I’m embarrassed to say it’s the cheapest, so I’ll point to the second from the bottom’’ - stop asking like that today. A sommelier is not an enemy who sells you wine, but a reliable ally who helps you make your meal the best it can be. We will teach you the “3 steps” to process orders smartly.

Step 1: First, communicate your “budget” wisely

You may feel reluctant to tell the sommelier your budget directly. In such a case, point to the price of the wine on the list that fits your budget and say, ``I’m thinking about this class of wine.’’ A professional sommelier will be able to accurately determine your maximum budget by looking at the amount you are pointing at.

Step 2: Convey your “preferences” through onomatopoeia and images

There’s no problem even if you don’t know the grape varieties or regions. Intuitive expressions such as I like it when it's bitter and heavy,'' I like it when I drink it like water,’’ and I like it when it's fruity and have a sweet scent'' are sufficient. If you don't know, it's actually a very smart way to ask, I’d like something that goes best with the meat dish I ordered today, please.''

Step 3: Know the correct answer to host tasting

When the wine is brought to you, a small amount is poured into your glass and you are asked to ``taste it, please.’' There’s no need to be in a hurry and comment on the taste, saying, “It’s delicious.” This ritual is to check whether the wine has deteriorated (defects such as cork odor) and whether it is the bottle you ordered. Swirl the glass, smell the scent, take a sip, and if there’s nothing unusual, just smile and nod and say, “It’s okay, please.” It’s perfect.

What do you think? Knowing these three steps will dramatically improve your restaurant behavior. Enjoy your wine dinner in style with the help of a professional.