Using the Correct Wine Glass

Using the correct wine glass can be as simple as using different glasses for red and white wines. However, true wine connoisseurs understand the complexities of wine varietals, and different glasses can highlight the aromas and appearance of various wines. There are a few basic principals to follow.

Instructions

1. Choose glasses with large bowls for red wines. The greater exposed surface lets the wine open up, enhancing its flavors and aromas. Within the category of red-wine glasses, there are two traditional styles: a Bordeaux glass and a Burgundy glass. The Bordeaux glass is tall, allowing the wine to proceed directly to the back of the drinker’s palate, where the flavor is maximized. The Burgundy glass, on the other hand, places the wine near the tip of the drinker’s tongue, where the drinker can notice the sweetness of the wine.

2. Choose glasses with smaller bowls for white wines. This shape allows for a concentration of flavors and helps chilled wine keep its temperature, since less surface area of the wine is exposed. For crisp, young wines, choose glasses with a slightly wider opening than the body, a shape that directs the wine to the tip of the tongue. For mature wines, choose a taller, straighter glass to enhance the wine's bold flavor, dispensing the wine to the back of the palate.

3. Choose trumpet or flute-style glasses for Champagnes and sparkling wines. Their narrow shape preserves the bubbles, allowing drinkers to enjoy the sparkling quality of the wine.

4. Choose small, narrow glasses for sweet after-dinner wines such as sherry, port and dessert wines. Small servings of these beverages are sipped after a meal. The shape of the glasses only allow for a small amount to be served.

Tips & Warnings

• A new trend is stemless glassware. Without a stem, the wine warms faster in the hand. The glass is also prone to fingerprints, since there is no stem to grab.

• Choose clear rather than colored wine glasses. This allows you to see the natural color and appearance of the wine.