How many times should a sommelier wipe the top of a bottle?

How many times should a sommelier wipe the top of a bottle?

• A. Once
• B. Three times
• C. Twice
• D. Four times

Answer: (C)

Wiping the top of the bottle is about keeping the bottle’s presentation clean and controlling spills during service. Do it twice: first, wipe the neck before presenting and pouring so the appearance is neat and dust-free; second, wipe again after the cork is removed and during pouring to remove any drips or stray wine on the neck. Using a clean cloth and wiping only the exterior neck helps maintain a polished, professional impression and prevents unsightly drips on the table or label.

Wiping the top of the bottle is about keeping the bottle’s presentation clean and controlling spills during service. Do it twice: first, wipe the neck before presenting and pouring so the appearance is neat and dust-free; second, wipe again after the cork is removed and during pouring to remove any drips or stray wine on the neck. Using a clean cloth and wiping only the exterior neck helps maintain a polished, professional impression and prevents unsightly drips on the table or label.