Sip Without Stress

How to order wine at a restaurant—and appear like you know what you’re doing.

“…And here is out wine list.” Though a simple statement, it can inspire anxiety when picking out a glass or bottle at a restaurant— but this shouldn’t be the case.

“It’s about discovery, not intimidation,” emphasizes Doreen Colondres, wine educator and founder of Vitis House. The easiest route to a confident, smart select is a sommelier— and, thankfully, the days of stuffy, dismissive vino experts are over. “Sommeliers love to introduce people to new favorites,” ensures Colondres. “It’s like matchmaking!”

Sans sommelier, Colondres’ rule of thumb is opting for varietals from countries with long winemaking histories—and avoiding cheap bottles from those with less experience (think: Chile, Australia and the States). And don’t feel pressured to use wine lingo, maintains Colondres—if you know your price and preferences, your server will be able to take care of you, no buzzwords necessary.

So, for the next time that daunting phone book-thick wine list is dropped off, we tapped Colondres to uncork alternatives to the panic picks.

Price Point Sweet Spot?

Usually between $18 and $30 a bottle. You can find incredible quality from regions that aren’t necessarily on the mainstream radar yet—places like Portugal, Croatia, Greece, parts of Spain, Argentina, and even lesser-known French and Italian appellations. Of course, prices can vary widely depending on the grape, the region’s prestige and how the wine is made. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to drink well.

Pairing Hacks?

Don’t just think about the protein—focus on the sauce, spices and how the dish is cooked. One of my best tips? Eat and drink in the same locale—pairing wine with food from the same region is almost always a win. Also, acidity in wine is your best friend—it brightens the palate and cuts through richness, salt or fat. Don’t be afraid to break the rules! Bubbles, rosé or orange with steak, or red wine with fish can be amazing. Just watch out for heat: If it’s spicy, reach for something with a touch of sweetness to cool it down.

Glass or Bottle?

If you’re exploring or unsure, by the glass is a great way to try something special without the full commitment—and it lets you taste a few different styles. Keep in mind premium wines by the glass are often marked up more to offset waste. That said, don’t be shy—if the wine smells off or seems corked, you can absolutely send it back, just like you would with a bottle.

When Is a Bottle the Move?

If you’re with friends and open to sharing— it’s usually a better value and gives you more time to enjoy how the wine evolves in the glass. Sometimes, a bottle really is the smarter splurge.

Among Wine Countries, What’s the Must-Have Bottle—and Most Budget-Friendly?

Spain is definitely having a moment, and, honestly, it deserves the spotlight. From elegant reds to sparkling cava—even volcanic wines from the Canary Islands— the quality-to-price ratio is hard to beat. Greece, Croatia, and Italian islands like Sicily and Sardinia are also hidden gems offering ancient varieties full of character at great value. And if you’re in the mood to venture off the beaten path, Hungary and Austria are packed with delicious surprises. … As I always say: One life isn’t enough to taste all the grapes in the world, so why not try something new every now and then?