Glassware

Stem

Holding the stem prevents heat from your hand warming the wine, which can alter its aroma and flavor. It also keeps the glass free of fingerprints for better visual appreciation of the wine.

Glassware Selection:

Use the right glass for each wine type (e.g., wide bowl for reds, narrow for whites).

Flute for Sparkling Wines

The narrow shape minimizes exposure to air, preserving bubbles longer, while concentrating the wine’s fruity and yeasty aromas.

Bowl Shape - Red Wine

Red Wine Glass: A larger bowl allows for more oxygen contact, enhancing the wine’s aromas and softening tannins.

Bowl Shape - White Wine

White Wine Glass: A smaller bowl preserves cooler temperatures and focuses the delicate aromas toward the nose.

Pouring Etiquette

Fill glasses only one-third full to allow aromas to develop.

Tasting Order

Taste light wines before heavy, dry before sweet.

Serving Temperature

Serve whites chilled (45-55°F) and reds at cellar temperature (55-65°F).

Decanting

Decant older wines and tannic reds to aerate and separate sediment.