Chapter 94
Everyone had been thoroughly engaged in the wine tasting when Valeria’s interruption killed the momentum. Several women frowned in obvious
annoyance.
Megan felt a flush of embarrassment. What the hell is wrong with Valeria?
Didn’t she know that interrupting someone mid–presentation was incredibly rude and showed a complete lack of class? Even though she wasn’t particularly fond of Rachel, this kind of behavior was unacceptable at such an event.
Rachel maintained her composure, her voice steady. “What’s your question?”
She’d been expecting some kind of pushback anyway.
“Anyone can Google wine facts and regurgitate them,” Valeria said dismissively. “Talking the talk is easy. Why don’t you actually show us your skills and demonstrate proper wine service?”
Talk is cheap, she thought smugly. But actually knowing how to properly serve wine? That’s a whole different level.
“I’d be happy to demonstrate proper wine service technique,” Rachel replied smoothly, her voice clear and confident.
The room quieted again, all attention focused on her.
Rachel moved to the service station and selected a bottle of Burgundy. She examined the label briefly before addressing the group. “The first step in proper wine service is temperature control and presentation.”
“You want to ensure the wine is at the optimal temperature–for this Burgundy, that’s around 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit. Too warm and the alcohol overwhelms the delicate flavors.”
She handled the bottle with practiced ease, demonstrating the proper grip and pour technique.
“When opening, you want to cut the foil cleanly below the lip of the bottle,” she continued, her movements fluid and precise. “And always wipe the neck before inserting the corkscrew.”
She expertly removed the cork in one smooth motion, then presented it to Mrs. Patterson. “The host should always smell the cork first to check for any off odors that might indicate the wine is corked.”
Next, she poured a small sample into a glass, swirling it gently. “You pour clockwise to aerate the wine, and always stop before the glass is more than a third full to allow proper swirling.”
Her demonstration was flawless–every movement deliberate and professional, like she’d been doing this for years.
“Please, try it,” Rachel said with a warm smile, offering the glass to Mrs. Patterson before serving the other women.
Mrs. Patterson took a sip, her eyebrows lifting in surprise. “This is… exceptional. Perfect temperature, beautiful pour. You clearly know what you’re doing.”
Lancey beamed with pride. “Rachel, I had no idea you were so knowledgeable about wine service.”
All that worrying for nothing, she thought. My daughter–in–law is full of surprises.
The other socialites grudgingly tasted their wines, and even those who’d been hoping to see Rachel fail had to admit her technique was impeccable,
Valeria and Joanne’s faces had gone ashen. They couldn’t believe Rachel actually knew what she was doing–and was clearly better at it than most of them.
How is this even possible?
Rachel smiled graciously and continued, “Wine service is really about respect–for the wine, for your guests, and for the experience you’re creating together.”
Chapter 94
“Whether it’s a $20 bottle or a $200 bottle, proper technique shows you care about giving people the best possible experience.”
As soon as she finished, Mrs. Patterson started applauding enthusiastically. “Beautifully said! Wine really is about bringing people together.”
Valeria clenched her jaw, whispering harshly to Joanne, “I can’t believe she pulled that off. Where the hell did she learn all this?”
Joanne snorted quietly. “Probably just got lucky. She won’t be so prepared next time.”
There’s no way Rachel is actually this sophisticated.
Lancey approached Rachel, gently squeezing her arm. “You were absolutely wonderful, sweetheart.”
Rachel smiled modestly. “I just hope I didn’t embarrass you, Mom.”
Lancey’s heart swelled at being called “Mom” so naturally. “Embarrass me? You made me incredibly proud.”
