During the process of opening a bottle of still wine, when should you wipe the neck of the bottle?

Wiping the neck of the bottle before cutting the capsule is important for several reasons. Performing this action ensures that any dust, dirt, or debris that may have accumulated on the neck is cleared away before you cut the capsule. This step is particularly significant because once the capsule is cut and the cork removed, the inside of the bottle is exposed to the external environment.

Taking this precaution helps maintain the cleanliness of the wine bottle's opening, which is critical for preventing contamination of the wine. Additionally, addressing cleanliness at this early stage can help ensure a more pleasant and hygienic pouring experience. It sets a standard of care in handling the wine that is appreciated, especially in formal tasting environments. This preventive action contributes to better overall hygiene and quality assurance during the wine serving process.