TIPS FROM THE EXPERT If that's the bottle you want ...

U Ask questions, ask for advice, tell me what you are having for dinner, but remember that there is no right or wrong -- only what works for you.
U The person assisting with the wine should have several options for you. Do not be afraid to tell them what you want to spend. Set a limit; there are probably numerous options in any number of price ranges. If not, then come and see me.
U When you order a bottle of wine, make sure that it is exactly what you ordered. A few changes in wording from list to bottle can mean the difference in a lot of hard-earned money.
U Take your time. This is a dance and it is more enjoyable when it is done at a pace that is comfortable for you, not your server.
U If you agree that it is the desired bottle, watch the server or steward open it and take a good taste of it from a fresh glass.
U Remember that 80 percent of what you taste is in your nose. Swirl the stuff a little bit and take it all in.
U If it is off (that is, corked) it will taste wrong. Each experience is unique, but there will be no fruit or style. It will just taste wrong -- bitter, vinegary, flat, acidic, spoiled, rotten. If that is the case, tell the server that you think that the wine is off (corked) and do not be offended if somebody tastes it in front of you.
U Smelling the cork is an old-fashioned way of seeing if the cork was rotten or dried out due to poor storing of the bottle. I look to see if the cork is wet, intact and firm -- that is about all.
U I have opened a lot of bottles of wine and have had less than 10 be off. Do not send a wine back just because you can.