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Steven Coulson
Steven has been drinking beers, wines and spirits for decades and has a propensity to go about them at length after a few drinks.
Latest Posts
- Oregon Road Trip: Freeland Spirits Garden Botanicals Gin
- Botanist with Trader Joe’s Lemon and Elderflower Soda
- I’m one of the worlds leading buyers of craft gin in the world and a international spirit judge AMA
- I’m blown away…. By how let down I am by this Gin.
- The Botanist 22 Gin Review: Perhaps the most overhyped gin around
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Navigating Tipping Etiquette: When Bartenders Shine with Knowledge
Recently, I had an experience at a new bar that left me contemplating the nuances of tipping—especially when it comes to bartenders who have a genuine passion for their craft. I ordered a Belgian gueuze, bracing myself for the usual scenario where the name is either mispronounced or unacknowledged altogether. To my surprise, the bartender confidently exclaimed, “the guhz is excellent,” effortlessly demonstrating her familiarity with this unique beer.
What followed was a delightful conversation about the intricacies of the wild fermentation process, along with her expert cheese pairing recommendation—all without me needing to prompt her. I found myself astounded; it’s rare to encounter a bartender who not only knows their drinks but also conveys that knowledge with enthusiasm and accuracy.
In light of her impressive service, I tipped 30%. However, this experience sparked a question that many of us may ponder: Is there an unwritten code when it comes to tipping based on a bartender’s expertise? Should we take into account their understanding of the beverages they’re serving and how well they communicate that to patrons?
Perhaps there’s a sliding scale we should consider. For those of us who appreciate a knowledgeable bartender—someone who goes beyond rote memorization and engages with us on the level of craft beer history or flavor profiling—bumping up our tip may seem fitting.
So, what is the best approach when you find yourself at the bar with someone who truly knows their stuff? Should you tip a bit more for expertise, or is a standard tip sufficient, regardless of the bartender’s knowledge? It appears that the experience itself and the joy it brings could very well warrant some extra appreciation.
Next time you’re enjoying a drink, pay attention to the passion and knowledge your bartender brings to the table. It might just inspire you to rethink your tipping strategy, celebrating those who elevate your night out with their expertise.