Spreading the Joy
Posted by Natalie Douvos on June 26th, 2007I love and appreciate fine dining. I also enjoy a really good bottle of wine. Toss in terrific and engaging company plus a friendly, knowledgeable, and skilled server and I’m having a fantastic time!
I recently received my first Mamacork wine club shipment. This club sends wine from a different boutique winery each month so it’s a great way to learn about wines that are new to me. I chose one of the bottles and headed to a favorite restaurant in Berkeley.
Over dinner, I was having a wonderful time and was in a great mood so on a whim I invited our beautifully French-accented server over to the table. I asked him if he’d like to try some of our 2004 Dutcher Crossing Taylor Reserve Zinfandel. He eagerly accepted and poured himself a taste. I got so much enjoyment out of watching his eyes light up and hearing him say ”Ooh, that’s good! Do you mind if I have my manager try it?” Of course!
I jotted down the wine details on my business card, along with some information about how the restaurant can connect directly with the winery via our Direct to Trade initiative.
Then came the nice surprise – he brought over the bill and discreetly mentioned that he waived their rather hefty corkage fee. Excellent!
So in the spirit of spontaneity, goodwill, and sharing, at the very least I received an unexpected break on my bill and enjoyed a terrific and memorable exchange with a stranger. And who knows? Maybe Dutcher Crossing will get some additional business or recognition. I can’t wait for next month’s club shipment!
