Only In Italy 9 - Mineral Water Tasting

In Italy, mineral water is a significant part of the dining experience, with specific types paired with different meals. The Association of Mineral Water Tasters offers lessons on water tasting, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right water for each dish. General guidelines suggest fizzy water for pizza and meat, slightly fizzy for risotto, natural bubble for pasta, and flat water for vegetables. Despite the emphasis, many diners view these distinctions as trivial.

What is unique about hotel patrons in Italy compared to other countries?

• They prefer animal-based dishes.

• They only drink vegetable juices.

• They are enthusiastic about mineral water.

• They avoid mineral water.

What is the role of waiters in the Italian dining experience?

• To choose the right mineral water for each meal.

• To serve only flat water.

• To avoid serving mineral water.

• To serve only fizzy drinks.

Which type of mineral water is recommended with pizza and meat dishes?

• Slightly fizzy water

• Flat water

• Fizzy water

• Natural bubble water

What type of mineral water should be paired with risotto?

• Flat water

• Slightly fizzy water

• Fizzy water

• Natural bubble water

How do most diners perceive the practice of pairing mineral water with meals?

• They find it confusing.

• They are indifferent.

• They think it's a load of gas.

• They find it essential.