We’ve all been there… stuck sipping that disappointing glass of restaurant pinot when you know in the back of your head there’s a bottle of Award Winning Harlow Court California Private Reserve waiting for you on the kitchen counter.
Fortunately, many restaurants offer a corkage fee, which means that you can bring your own bottle to dinner, pay a fee, and drink your favorite wine over a delicious meal. How cool is that?
Now that’s what I call satisfaction guaranteed, especially with some of the incredible wines we have coming up this season!
Here are a few guidelines and ideas when it comes to corkage so you can ensure that you’ll always enjoy the wine you know you love…
Go With What You Know
Now, I always say that my favorite wine is the open bottle, but sometimes I don’t want to take the risk of trying a new wine. I just want something that I know will satisfy my palate.
Like anyone in the wine business, I know that I prefer certain flavors to others. Knowing your wine taste preferences enhances your wine experience greatly – which is why I love being able to bring my own bottle to a restaurant, especially if I’m having dinner with friends or family and I want to make sure the wine is top-notch.
In fact, if this is the case when I’m traveling, I’ll even pop into a local wine shop and nab a local bottle that the wine seller recommends to have with my dinner. Often I’ll get the local bottle along with one of my classic favorites, just in case.
The Skinny on Corkage Costs
Corkage ranges in price depending on how upscale the restaurant. Typically, corkage costs $5 – $25 depending where you are dining.
Did your eyes bug out a little when you saw the $25 price tag? Let’s look at the numbers for a quick moment.
Essentially, a $25 corkage (although lofty) guarantees you will love what you are drinking. Even if you paid $25 for the bottle, you’re still getting a better deal than if you were to purchase a $50 bottle at the restaurant and possibly not like it!
Select restaurants offer a free corkage night, so inquire when you call because let’s be real… free is always better! Other times if you buy a bottle from the restaurant’s menu, they will waive corkage on one of your own bottles (great for a long 2 bottle dinner!) Also, be mindful of the bottle you bring and check to see if it’s already on their menu – if it’s served by the restaurant, corkage may not be an option though if you’re bringing a WineShop wine that will never be an issue.
All you have to do to take advantage of the “bring your own bottle” option is call ahead to your favorite restaurant, inquire if corkage is offered and get ready for your dining out to be fabulous!
Love wine, and want to get into the business of sharing that love with others? Let’s talk! WineShop at Home consultants across the country are earning money, having fun and enjoying wine with WineShop, and you can too. Click HERE to set up a time to speak with me directly.