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.