Wine is a popular beverage, enjoyed by millions around the world. It’s no surprise that people often find themselves in social situations where they are required to hold a wine glass. However, holding a wine glass can be intimidating for many people. It’s important to know how to hold a wine glass correctly to avoid spilling, prevent the glass from slipping out of your hand, and present an air of elegance and sophistication. In this article, we will discuss the proper way to hold a wine glass.
Why Is It Important To Hold A Wine Glass Correctly?
Before we dive into the specifics of how to hold a wine glass, let’s talk about why it’s important to do so. Holding a wine glass correctly not only ensures that you will not spill any wine, but it also shows that you have a basic understanding of wine etiquette. Properly holding a wine glass can also help to enhance the aroma and flavor of the wine you are drinking.
How To Hold A Wine Glass
Choose The Right Wine Glass
The first step to holding a wine glass correctly is to choose the right glass. Different types of wine are best served in specific types of glasses. For example, red wine is typically served in a glass with a larger bowl, while white wine is best served in a glass with a smaller bowl. Choosing the right glass is crucial because it affects how the wine tastes and smells. Additionally, certain glasses may be more difficult to hold than others, so choosing the right glass can also make it easier to hold the wine glass correctly.
Hold The Stem Of The Glass
The proper way to hold a wine glass is by the stem. The stem is the long, thin part of the glass that connects the bowl to the base. Holding the stem keeps the wine at the correct temperature and prevents fingerprints on the bowl, which can obscure the color and clarity of the wine. Holding the stem also ensures that your hand doesn’t warm the wine, which can alter its taste.
Support The Base Of The Glass
When you hold a wine glass by the stem, you need to support the base of the glass with your other hand. This helps to provide stability and prevents the glass from slipping out of your hand. Additionally, holding the base of the glass can help you to control the movement of the wine, which can help you to prevent spills.
Don’t Swirl The Wine While Holding The Glass
When you hold a wine glass, it’s important not to swirl the wine while holding the glass. Swirling the wine can cause the glass to move around in your hand, increasing the likelihood of spilling. Instead, place the glass on a flat surface, such as a table, and swirl the wine gently by rotating the base of the glass.
Keep Your Hand And Fingers Away From The Bowl
When holding a wine glass, it’s important to keep your hand and fingers away from the bowl. This prevents the glass from becoming warm, which can affect the taste of the wine. Additionally, keeping your hand away from the bowl prevents fingerprints from obstructing the color and clarity of the wine.
Hold The Glass At An Angle
When you hold a wine glass, it’s best to hold it at an angle. Tipping the glass slightly towards you allows you to better appreciate the wine’s aroma and flavor. Holding the glass at an angle also allows you to see the color and clarity of the wine more clearly.
Take Small Sips Of Wine
When you drink wine, take small sips. This allows you to fully appreciate the taste and aroma of the wine. It also allows you to drink the wine slowly, which can help you to savor the experience. Taking small sips also helps to prevent spills and allows you to control the amount of wine you drink.
Place The Glass Down Between Sips
When you’re not actively drinking from your wine glass, it’s best to place it down on a flat surface, such as a table or coaster. This prevents the glass from accidentally slipping out of your hand or being knocked over. It also allows you to fully engage in conversation with others without the added distraction of holding a wine glass.
Use Proper Wine Glass Etiquette
Finally, it’s important to use proper wine glass etiquette when holding a wine glass. This includes not clinking glasses too forcefully, as this can cause the glass to break or spill. Additionally, it’s important to hold the glass at the appropriate height when toasting. The glass should be held at chest level, not above or below, and should be tilted slightly towards the other person.
Conclusion
Holding a wine glass correctly may seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in your overall wine-drinking experience. By choosing the right glass, holding the stem, supporting the base, and keeping your hand and fingers away from the bowl, you can enjoy your wine without worrying about spills or affecting the taste of the wine. Additionally, using proper wine glass etiquette can help you to present yourself in a sophisticated and elegant manner. So, the next time you find yourself in a situation where you need to hold a wine glass, remember these simple steps and enjoy your wine with confidence.
