Lead the Way: Enhancing the Guest Experience Through Elevated Wine Service
At Landscapes Golf Management, we are committed to delivering exceptional experiences—both on and off the course. In this installment of our Lead the Way video series, we highlight Maddie Riccie, Food & Beverage Manager at River Run Country Club in Davidson, North Carolina, as she shares best practices for refined and professional wine service.
With a focus on attention to detail, presentation, and guest engagement, Maddie walks through the step-by-step process of serving wine in a way that adds value to the dining experience and reflects a high standard of hospitality.
Keys to Professional Wine Service
Preparation and Presentation
Begin by folding a clean serviette and draping it over your arm. This simple yet essential step helps maintain cleanliness and professionalism, serving as a tool to wipe away dust and catch any drips during service.
Confirming the Selection
Always present the bottle to the guest who ordered it, clearly displaying the label to confirm the vintage and varietal. This ensures accuracy and builds trust in your service.
Clean and Precise Foil Removal
Use the knife on your wine key to cut just below the lip of the bottle, making a clean, even cut around the top. Remove the foil in one piece and discreetly place it in your pocket to maintain a clean tablescape.
Opening the Bottle with Care
Insert the corkscrew while keeping the label visible to the guest. Use a two-step lever to gently extract the cork, taking care to do so slowly and quietly. Once removed, place the cork on the table for the guest’s inspection.
Tasting and Service Sequence
Wipe the lip of the bottle with your serviette and pour a small tasting portion for the guest who ordered. Once approved, serve the remaining guests in a clockwise direction around the table, wiping the lip between pours to prevent drips.
Bottle Placement and Final Touches
Place the wine bottle on a coaster in the center of the table, with the label facing outward for easy visibility. Offer to remove or leave the cork based on guest preference—small touches like these show attentiveness and elevate the overall experience.
Wine service is more than a routine—it’s an opportunity to deliver a memorable moment. Whether in a formal dining setting or a casual clubhouse environment, these best practices reinforce a culture of excellence that distinguishes our properties.
