How to avoid a corkage-fee hassle

Q: I wonder if you could answer a borderline etiquette question regarding corkage fees. I made reservations for 10 people at a new restaurant that had not yet obtained a liquor license. I asked if we could bring in our own wine since they could not sell us any. They told me no problem. When our bill arrived we were charged a corkage fee of $12 per bottle for the eight bottles of wine that we brought. The waiter did provide wine glasses, open the bottles and pour some of the wine.

I understand the fees when you bring in a bottle to an establishment that has its own offerings, because you are taking away from profits they would normally receive. But it is my feeling that a $96 corkage fee is out of line when they do not disclose the fee in advance and do not sell the product themselves. Is there any standard in this situation?

A: Unfortunately, there are no clear rules or standards, and every restaurant has its own set of guidelines.

In this instance, the restaurant certainly should have informed you about the corkage charge. On the other hand, it sounds as if you did not specifically ask if there would be such a charge.

It is always best to ask questions in advance, get the name of the person who gives you the answers, and confirm them once again when you arrive. Since that was not done, it is the restaurant's right to charge you as they did. You do not say whether or not you asked them to reduce the charges. If you did, and they refused, I would make it clear to the owner that you won't be coming back.

Paul Gregutt answers questions weekly in the Wine section.

He can be reached by e-mail at wine@seattletimes.com.