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Every time I go out for a work event, the somm brings my male colleagues the wine list. I actually know a lot more about wine, but even if I didn’t, it’s 2017! How can I politely but firmly take control of this situation?
This is a very tough situation. Fortunately, though, it does seem to happen less and less. Usually the safest move is for the somm to either ask who wants the list, or just place it in the center of the table, which is what I now see done quite frequently. If however the somm or server does present the list to your male colleague, speak up and mention that you’d like to take a look at it. Let your colleagues know you love wine and know a lot about it. One would hope they don’t have such big egos that they wouldn’t let you order.

Of course, if you happen to be an executive at Uber, that’s a whole different situation.

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I have a friend who always helps himself to my expensive booze when he comes over. What’s my move here? Do I hide it? Or get over myself?
Get over yourself. Great drinks are meant to be shared. If you happen to have a bottle that is truly rare or hard to come by, like Pappy Van Winkle, then by all means, hide it if you really want to. But if you have great drinks out on your bar, it’s pretty ridiculous for you to get upset if your guest chooses the premium over the well.

What’s the best gin to put in a G&T?
The best gin for a Gin & Tonic is any gin you like. In fact, every gin on the market is going to give you a different Gin Tonic. If you go with a gin you love and then find a really great tonic to pair with it, and you’re going to have a great G&T.