After opening a bottle for a customer, what is the essential check to perform?

The essential check after opening a bottle for a customer is to inspect the lip for damage and residue. This step is crucial for several reasons. First, a damaged lip can compromise the integrity of the bottle and potentially lead to contamination or spoilage of the contents. Identifying any chips or cracks ensures that the drink is served safely and is still suitable for consumption.

Additionally, checking for any residue on the lip is important to prevent any unwanted flavors or particles from entering the drink. Residue can come from various sources, such as previous pours, improper cleaning, or contamination during handling. Ensuring a clean pour not only enhances the drinking experience but also demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail.

In contrast, while factors like alcohol content and bottle shape can be relevant in other contexts, they are not immediate concerns once a bottle has been opened. Similarly, checking the temperature, while important for serving certain beverages, does not take priority over ensuring the lip is intact and clean, as this directly impacts the customer's immediate experience.