Restaurant Tipping on Wine

[wineguruchgo]

I think alot of it has to do with the service. Did the waiter talk about the wine and possibly have you try a wine you have never had before. Did the waiter suggest the correct wine with your food? Did the waiter take the time with you and the list and decant if necessary? If they waiter goes above and beyond I think it's quite acceptable to tip fully on the wine.

On the other hand, did you pick your own wine and the waiter just opened it, poured the first glass and then disappear leaving you in resturant table hell? Well, no. I wouldn't tip fully.

I'd like your opinion on this one. As some of you know I am the sommelier in a chain of restaurants. One evening a customer ordered what turned out to be our last bottle of Beringer Private Reserve, 1997, Cab. It was pricey. Then he wanted another bottle and we didn't have it. So as I approached the table with the winelist I had yet another spectacular bottle tucked in my arm. I knew this guy was a high roller which is why I grabbed the bottle. As I handed him the list, I explained that the bottle I had wasn't on the list and we save a few bottles in the back for special customers. The wine was Caymus Reserve Cab, 1997.

His bill for dinner and wine was $700.00 and the guy left $40.00.

What is your take on that?