When I'm trying to fix a sent-back drink, what also drives me nuts is when someone won't just admit what they really want because they think I'll judge the drink for being too "basic." (Side note: I don't judge these, and personally will drink a vodka soda with a splash of cranberry any day of the week.)
Sometimes I might nudge someone to be adventurous. Go ahead, try that smoky mezcal drink on the menu! And then, oops, they hate it.
That's OK.
I would always rather a guest try and be adventurous in their choice, even if that choice makes them realize they wanted that "basic" vodka drink they usually opt for.
Four of five times in that scenario, I end up helping someone discover a new drink or flavor that they like. And that's worth the one in five for whom I'm happy to do the do-over.