Jesus responded with deference. There were two issues stated in this sentence. John does not indicate the time frame. His point is not the time of the miracle, but its realization. The second issue lies in the chief steward.
Some scholars insist the chief steward was a slave chosen to serve the tables.
Such a position carried great honor. See the commentary for more information. The comparison between the good and a lesser is not a mere matter of quality. This sign was the paradigm that threw light on all other Jesus performed. This sign revealed the person of Jesus and his mission.