Wine is perhaps best understood as royalty.
Indeed this is the best way to begin one’s journey into the world of wine and recognize that etiquette is so much more than pleasantries.
Learning to hold the wine glass the right way will advance you to the art of wine tasting.
Is there a correct way to hold a wine glass?
Let’s begin by understanding the design of a wine glass.
Parts of a wine glass
A traditional stemmed wine glass is divided into 3 components.
The Bowl
Also referred to as the goblet, this is where wine is poured in.
The wider bowl for red wine is so that one can swirl it to release aromas. The narrower bowl for white wine allows one’s nose to be nearer to capture its floral accents.
The Stem
The long slender bit beneath the bowl is where one holds the glass. This feature is crucial in availing one to pick up and drink wine easily.
The Base
The flat bit at the bottom supports the wine glass. It also assists to provide stability when holding the wine glass.
How to hold a wine glass like a pro?
There are two different types of wine glasses; stemmed and stemless wine glasses. But first, let’s go through the correct techniques of holding a wine glass.
Classic approach of holding a wine glass
Courtly slide one’s forefinger and thumb to the lower end of the stem; firmly lifting the glass. Allow the other fingers to rest naturally on the top of the base.
Now let’s review how a man or woman holds a stemmed wine glass elegantly.
How to hold a wine glass for women
Pinch the stem as close as possible to the base and extend your middle finger under the bottom of the glass.
This will grant you better support and control over the angle when you tilt a full glass for the first sip.
How to hold a wine glass for men
A more masculine approach would be to rest your middle and forefinger under the base of the wine glass. Curl the other fingers into a ball while balancing the glass with the thumb on the top of the base.
How to hold a stemless wine glass
It is recommended that only your thumb, forefinger, and middle finger make contact with the glass. The other fingers should curl away from the glass or be placed underneath the base for natural support.
How to hold a traditional wine glass
A traditional wine glass is one with a stem. Whichever method is preferred, the primary focus is to have it firmly held at its stem and base, avoiding the bowl.
Did you know that there are specific wine glasses for each wine variety? Learn more about selecting the best wine glass for various types of wine if you desire an enjoyable wine drinking experience.
Etiquettes of holding a wine glass
How to hold a red wine glass vs white wine glass?
Generally, one is supposed to hold white wine glasses at the stem, and red wine glasses by the bowl.
Which part of the wine glass you must avoid holding?
The main rule of thumb is not to hold a wine glass by grabbing it like a beer mug.
Instead, hold it by the stem and base. There are two reasons for this:
- Keeping things crystal clear
Our fingers contain natural oils and, if we are dining, they carry grease or sometimes food remains. A muddied glass would reduce our ability to visually enjoy the stunning hues of red during swirling or the dreamy bubbles of white wine.
Food residues on the glass would also alter our perceptions of scent and taste as one would pick up the aromas as well.
- Preserving the ideal temperature.
The ideal temperature is crucial for bringing out a wine’s intended flavor profile and characteristics. Minimizing contact with the bowl allows the wine to be at its optimum temperature.
What is the proper way to hold the glass when serving?
As a host, hold the glass at its base while pouring. Doing so allows the recipient to receive the glass by pinching the stem.
Tilt the glass slightly while pouring. The neck of the bottle should never touch the rim of the glass. Pour swiftly and steadily to the portion according to the size of the glass and type of wine.
Why do you hold a wine glass by the base?
The base is crucial in keeping a perfect equilibrium to evade spillage while sipping wine.
When bringing the glass to your nose for a smell, do not press down on the stem with your finger as this can cause the stem to break.
Also, adding a slight pressure with your fingers at the base and tilting the glass away from yourself will help to prevent wine from spilling.
Final thoughts and tips for enjoying wine to the fullest
Who knew holding a wine glass is so rich in etiquette and intent?
While it may seem complicated, practice will make for a smooth, accident-free experience.
Ultimately, holding a wine glass is simply the initiation rite of passage into the royal world of wine, which represents culture, couture, finesse, and elegance.
Whisky.my has a wide selection of wine glasses for you to choose from, so embark on your wine tasting journey now!
