Dining out is a mosaic of flavors, ambiance, and shared moments. As a scoop follower, you probably love to dine out and do it often. A less familiar element is the practice of bringing your own bottle of wine to restaurants. Why would you even do this? How should you approach it if you do? We have answers.
Not all US states/cities/counties allow “BYOB” but Charlotte, North Carolina does. The option to accept outside bottles and to charge a corkage fee for this is up to each restaurant.
Special Occasions. Special Bottles. Special Meals.
People don’t just bring a random bottle of wine to an everyday meal at a restaurant. Beverage sales at restaurants often provide the best margin or profit, and help cover the expenses of running the restaurant. Bringing your own bottle should mark a special occasion, or offer the chance to savor special wines not available at the restaurant. It’s about uncorking a bottle from a special or unavailable vintage, celebrating a milestone, or sharing a discovery from a faraway vineyard. As such, it’s also considered polite to offer a taste from your special bottle to the sommelier at the restaurant.
The cost that accompanies this privilege is called a corkage fee. It covers the service provided by the restaurant for serving wines that guests bring themselves, with these fees varying based on the restaurant and the bottle size. And there are certainly restaurants with extensive wine cellars who do not accept outside bottles, as is 100% their option.
It Takes Some Finesse
Understanding corkage fees and bringing your own wine involves observing some thoughtful guidelines. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Call Ahead: Always ensure the restaurant permits wine bring-ins and inquire about their corkage fee. Some places might have specific restrictions or guidelines – such as they do not carry the winery, or they limit the number of bottles. Then there are those that don’t allow any outside food or beverage in their establishment.
- Check Corkage Fees: Fees can vary widely among restaurants.
- Respect Restaurant Rules: Adhere to any restrictions on the type of wine allowed. Respect guidelines regarding duplicates or wines already on their list.
- Choose Wisely: Select a bottle that complements the restaurant’s cuisine. The restaurant staff can often assist in selecting dishes from their menu that pair well with your chosen wine.
- Show Appreciation: Acknowledge the privilege of bringing your own bottle. Remember, the restaurant is providing service and glassware.
- Share with Staff: Offering a taste to the sommelier or staff can be a kind gesture, especially if they’ve assisted in decanting or offering guidance.
- Tip Thoughtfully: Calculate your tip to include the corkage fee and/or bottle value. This gesture acknowledges the service provided.
Here’s a list of some Charlotte restaurants and their corkage fees:
- Angeline’s: $30 per 750ml bottle (applies to all approved wines)
- Capital Grille: $25 per 750ml bottle (2 bottles max per reservation)
- Chapter 6: $20 per 750ml bottle, $40 for magnum bottles
- Counter-: $45 per 750ml bottle or half bottles, $90 for other formats (wines can not be available on the wine list)
- Dressler’s: $20 per 750ml bottle, $40 for magnum bottles
- Fin & Fino: $20 per 750ml bottle, $40 for magnum bottles
- Fig Tree: $25 per 750ml bottle, $50 for magnum bottles (no bottle currently available on the wine list)
- The Fox and Falcon by David Burke $35 per 750ml bottle (3 bottle limit)
- Kindred: $20 per 750ml bottle
- Mariposa: $25 per 750ml bottle (waived if guests purchase a bottle from their list)
- McNinch House Restaurant: $35 per 750ml bottle
- Merchant & Trade $30 per 750ml bottle (applies to all approved wines)
- Port City Club by David Burke $25 per 750ml bottle
- Porter’s House: $20 per 750ml bottle, $40 for magnum bottles
- RH Rooftop Restaurant: $25 per 750ml bottle
- Supperland $25 per 750ml bottle (one per table)
It’s advisable to contact the restaurant directly before planning to bring your own bottle, as all rules are subject to change. By respecting their guidelines, patrons can gracefully enjoy their chosen bottles while honoring the policies of the establishments they visit.
It’s not just about savoring wine; it’s about elevating dining experiences, crafting unforgettable moments, one sip at a time.
