dumb waiters

[redsauced]

Now, I'm no snob, just trying to learn about wine and practice when I can. On my anniversary I went to a local restaurant that features Duck (2 ways). I was looking forward to pairing with my last bottle of Blackjack Ranch Maximus Syrah. I also brought along 750ml bottle of German reisling for the starter courses. Our waiter arrived and I suggested decanting the big Syrah. He looked puzzled and replied, "can the Syrah?" Now, this is a 4 ot 5 star place, so I asked for the sommelier. The waiter says, "do you want the manager?" He then takes the Syrah off the table and heads for the kitchen. I had to chase him across the room to keep my wine from God knows where. This comedy of errors continued for a while. We finally got up and walked out. In the parking lot I phoned and ordered the roasted Duck to go, went home popped the Syrah, waited 20 minutes , and we had our feast. Has anyone noticed that good wait staff in nice places are hard to find these days? Anyway the Duck with the Blackjack Syrah was FANTASTIC. At least I didn't have to cook it myself.