Understanding the Art of Wine Glass Handling

The Importance of Wine Glass Holding

The act of holding a wine glass is more than just a matter of grasp; it's an art that speaks volumes about your understanding and appreciation of the drink. The way a wine glass is held can actually influence the taste and aroma of the wine. This phenomenon is fundamentally linked to the interaction between the wine and the outside air, which in turn, is influenced by the temperature of the glass and therefore, by the way it is held. It may come as a surprise, but holding the glass by the bowl can actually warm the wine and possibly alter its taste.

• Fingers' warmth can transfer to the bowl, especially considering that wine glasses are typically thin.
• The warmth can increase the temperature of the wine, and as we know, wines are very temperature-sensitive.
• Ultimately these slight alterations can change the way the wine tastes and smells, hence affecting the overall wine-drinking experience.

Correct Ways to Hold a Wine Glass

While it is fashionable to hold a wine glass by the bowl, it is not the proper way to do so. The correct way to hold a wine glass is by the stem. There are several ways to hold a stem, but the most commonly approved method is to grip the stem between your thumb, forefinger, and middle finger.

• This grip helps in maintaining the temperature of the wine as it keeps your hand's warmth away from the bowl.
• It also provides stability and control over the glass, reducing the risk of spillage or tipping over the glass.
• Holding the glass by its stem also serves a social function, it gives the impression that you understand the etiquettes of wine drinking, adding to your overall appeal.

The Role of the Type of Glass in Holding Wine

Last but not least, the type of glass plays an important role in the way one should hold a wine glass. There are different kinds of wine glasses for different types of wine - red, white, sparkling each has its own designated glass, and with a different glass, the holding technique can vary slightly.

• White wine glasses typically have a longer stem, designed to keep the wine cooler for longer. Hence, these glasses should always be held by the stem.
• Red wine glasses usually have a larger, rounder bowl to allow the wine to breathe, and can be held at the base of the bowl or the stem, though the stem is still preferable.
• Champagne or sparkling wine glasses are usually flutes with long stems meant to preserve the bubbles, and hence, should be held by the stem.