What should a server do before serving wine to ensure quality?

Before serving wine, it is crucial for a server to check for cork damage or any signs of spoilage in order to ensure the quality of the drink. This step involves examining the cork for any signs of leakage, mold, or crumbling, as well as inspecting the wine itself for clarity, color, and any unusual odors that might indicate oxidation or contamination.

Ensuring that the wine is free from these defects is vital, as serving spoiled or damaged wine can negatively impact the guest's experience and the restaurant's reputation. By conducting this check, the server can confidently serve wine that meets quality standards, enhancing the guest's enjoyment of the meal.

The other options do not appropriately address the necessary precautions to ensure quality. Serving immediately without any inspection skips this critical quality check, tasting a small amount before serving isn't a standard practice and may not be appropriate in all restaurant settings. Limiting service to only popular wines disregards the importance of quality in all selections. Therefore, checking for cork damage or spoilage is the best practice before serving wine.