Final answer:
After presenting the cork to a guest, you should place it in front of the guest who ordered the bottle. It's a part of service etiquette to allow the guest to inspect the cork. Removing it is only acceptable if the guest shows no further interest in it.
Step-by-step explanation:
After presenting the cork to a guest who has ordered a bottle of wine, the proper protocol is to d) Place it in front of the guest who ordered the bottle. This ritual serves as a gesture of service and respect, allowing the guest to examine the cork for signs of wine quality such as proper branding and condition. While options such as Discard it, hide it, or keep it as a souvenir might be considered, they do not adhere to standard service etiquette.
Providing this level of attention to detail enhances the dining experience and upholds the hospitality standards of the establishment. However, after this initial presentation, if the guest leaves the cork untouched or indicates that they have no further interest in it, it is then acceptable to neatly tuck it away to the side of the table or remove it with the guest's permission.