As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that house wine is not always the cheapest option available. While it is true that house wines are often considered more affordable compared to other selections on a wine list, it is important to note that the price of a house wine can vary depending on the establishment.
When we talk about house wine, we are referring to the wine that is offered by the glass or carafe in a restaurant or bar. The term “house wine” can also be used to describe the wine that a person regularly stocks in their own home. In both cases, the price of the house wine is not necessarily the lowest on the menu or in the store.
In a restaurant or bar setting, the cost of the house wine is typically determined by the establishment's pricing strategy. While some places may choose to offer a lower-priced house wine to attract customers, others may opt for a higher-quality house wine and charge accordingly. This means that the price of the house wine can vary greatly from one place to another.
As a personal experience, I have been to restaurants where the house wine was indeed the cheapest option on the menu. These establishments focused on providing affordable dining experiences and aimed to accommodate a wide range of budgets. On the other hand, I have also been to upscale restaurants where the house wine was priced higher than some of the other selections. In these cases, the house wine was carefully chosen to reflect the quality and reputation of the establishment.
It is worth mentioning that the cost of a house wine can also be influenced by factors such as region, grape variety, and production methods. Some house wines may be sourced from well-known wine regions, made from popular grape varieties, or crafted using traditional winemaking techniques. These factors can contribute to a higher price point, even for a house wine.
While house wines are often perceived as more affordable options, they are not always the cheapest choice available. The price of a house wine can vary depending on the establishment, its pricing strategy, and the quality of the wine itself. It is always a good idea to ask about the pricing and characteristics of the house wine before making a decision, as it can differ significantly from one place to another.