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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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The Art of Tipping: Navigating Gratuity for Knowledgeable Bartenders
Last night, I had the pleasure of visiting a new bar that specializes in Belgian beers. As a fan of these unique brews, I decided to order a Belgian gueuze, fully bracing myself for the usual hiccup in pronunciation that often accompanies such orders. However, I was pleasantly surprised when the bartender confidently referred to it as “the guhz,” showcasing not only her pronunciation skills but also her depth of knowledge about the beverage.
Without prompting, she delved into a discussion about the intricate wild fermentation process behind gueuze and even recommended a cheese pairing that would elevate the tasting experience. I found myself momentarily speechless—it’s a rarity to encounter a bartender with such expertise. Many tend to either mispronounce the name or simply avoid saying it altogether, so this level of professionalism was refreshing.
Given my admiration for her knowledge and the care with which she served me, I decided to tip 30%—an amount I felt was well justified in this scenario. However, it left me pondering: is there an established etiquette when it comes to tipping based on a bartender’s knowledge and skill?
Do we adjust our tips depending on how well they can pronounce a challenging beer name? Is there a grading scale for expertise that should influence our gratuity? When faced with a bartender who goes above and beyond in their service, it raises interesting questions about the expectations we hold and the value we place on their knowledge.
Navigating the nuances of tipping can often feel complex, but perhaps it should take into account not just the service rendered but also the passion and insight displayed—especially when a bartender demonstrates a genuine connection to their craft. So the next time you find yourself served by someone who truly knows what they’re talking about, consider showing your appreciation through a tip that reflects their expertise. It might just inspire more bartenders to delve deeper into their craft and enhance everyone’s drinking experience.