But should we really do this? Should wine bottles be on the table during the meal? Should wine bottles be placed in the center of the table? Our experts have a clear idea on this topic. In fact, the Wine Etiquette is precise and detailed on the matter. Keep reading. We'll explain everything.

Where should I put wine bottles during a meal?

The answer to the main question of our article is the following:

THE WINE BOTTLE SHOULD NOT BE PLACED IN THE CENTER OF THE TABLE DURING THE MEAL.

More specifically:

THE WINE BOTTLE SHOULD NOT BE KEPT ON THE TABLE DURING THE MEAL.

Is it surprising? How many times, after opening the bottle of wine, have we left it in the middle of the table? Many times. We were sure that the position in the middle of the table was the most appropriate. We have all done it. Don't worry, it is not one of those big mistakes that can ruin a meal or dinner. In any case, from now on, you know that you should not do it.

Where should we put the bottle of wine? Where should the bottle of wine be placed during a meal? We'll answer you right away:

THE WINE BOTTLE SHOULD BE PLACED ON A SPECIAL WINE TROLLEY NEXT TO THE TABLE.

It's called gueridon: it's a service trolley with wheels, usually with two levels, used especially in the most elegant and refined places. However, you can also use a small table, to be placed next to the main table. In this way, the bottle of wine does not remain on the table, but is still easily accessible for service.

To adopt this solution, it is essential that there is a sommelier or a professional in charge of pouring the wine, as often happens in restaurants. But at home, what to do? In this case, the task is of the host. Even in these circumstances, it is better to place the bottle on a specific table. However, if you do not have a small table, the bottle should be placed near the person in charge of the service, in an area away from the center of the table.

Why shouldn't the bottle of wine be placed in the center of the table during the meal?

This is the question everyone asks when they discover this rule of Wine Etiquette. It is automatic. The answer is the following:

THE WINE BOTTLE SHOULD NOT BE PLACED IN THE CENTER OF THE TABLE BECAUSE IT COULD BE CUMBERSOME.

Placing the bottle of wine in the center of the table can be both a visual and physical obstacle. Visually, it could disturb the diners when they are talking to each other. Physically, it could create disorder and confusion on the table. Above all, placing the bottle in the center of the table is not comfortable for the sommelier. To pick up the bottle, the waiter or the person pouring the wine could bump into the diners or glasses, plates and cutlery, creating unpleasant and inelegant situations. According to the Wine Etiquette, there must be maximum order at the table.

The bottle of wine should not be placed on the table: are there any exceptions?

Yes, there are exceptions to this rule: during more informal meals when the guests pour themselves the wine. In these cases, the bottle of wine can be placed on the table, but NEVER in the center.

Where should we place the bottle of wine? The answer to this question cannot be definitive. It depends on the situation, especially on the number of people sitting at the table. The most important thing is that the bottle is not an obstacle for the people sitting at the table. The bottle should never be placed in the center, but placed in a lateral area of the table. For example, in a dinner with two people, the bottle should not be placed between the two people, but to the side of the couple.