DO NOT be afraid when ordering btg to ask the server/bartender “Was this opened today?” Usually they will know, and if they say “no, it was opened on x but we gas them” then they will usually follow up with either “want to try it first?” Or “I can open a new bottle…” Don’t jump to opening a new bottle if it is a red. Ask for a taste b/c some reds are better the next day even if not gassed. Even some sparklings a hold well overnight. All this is to say that do as your mom told you years ago: Use your voice. Make a friend. Do it with a smile and don’t be surprised if later in the meal you are gifted a little libation surprise. Everyone loves a wine geek. No one likes a snob. And your wine and food experience will be way better than starting your meal with a shot wine. Who wants THAT?
