Wine drinking is often associated with elegance and sophistication. Whether you’re attending a formal wine tasting or enjoying a glass of wine with friends, it’s helpful to be aware of wine drinking etiquette. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind for polished wine lovers:
Dos:
- Hold the wine glass by the stem: When holding a wine glass, grasp it by the stem rather than the bowl. This helps to prevent warming the wine with your hand and keeps fingerprints off the glass, allowing you to appreciate the color and clarity of the wine.
- Observe and appreciate the wine: Take a moment to observe the wine’s color, clarity, and viscosity. Swirl the wine gently in the glass to release its aromas. Take time to appreciate the wine’s aroma before taking a sip.
- Taste the wine properly: When tasting wine, take a small sip and allow it to coat your mouth. Pay attention to the different flavors, acidity, and tannins. Take your time and savor the wine, noting its complexity and nuances.
- Pair wine and food thoughtfully: When pairing wine with food, consider complementary flavors. Lighter wines generally pair well with lighter dishes, while heavier wines can stand up to bolder, more robust flavors. Experiment and find combinations that enhance the dining experience.
- Serve wine at the appropriate temperature: Different wines have specific temperature ranges at which they are best enjoyed. Whites are typically served chilled, while reds are served at slightly cooler than room temperature. Refer to recommended serving temperatures for different types of wines to ensure optimal enjoyment.
Don’ts:
- Fill the wine glass too full: When pouring wine, avoid filling the glass to the brim. Leave enough space to allow the aromas to develop and to swirl the wine without spillage. A typical serving size is around 5-6 ounces (150-180 ml) for a wine glass.
- Drink wine too quickly: Sip and savor your wine rather than rushing through it. Take your time to appreciate the flavors, aromas, and the overall experience. Enjoying wine is meant to be a leisurely and enjoyable activity.
- Overpower the wine with strong fragrances: Avoid wearing strong perfumes, colognes, or heavily scented lotions when attending wine tastings or events. Strong fragrances can interfere with your ability to fully appreciate the wine’s aromas.
- Use the wrong glassware: While you don’t need elaborate glassware for every occasion, it’s best to use appropriate wine glasses that allow the aromas to develop and concentrate. For example, red wines are typically served in larger, wider glasses, while white wines are served in smaller, more narrow glasses.
- Be overly critical or dismissive: Wine appreciation is subjective, and everyone has different tastes and preferences. Avoid being overly critical or dismissive of others’ opinions or choices. Respect and appreciate the diversity of wine experiences and the personal enjoyment it brings.
Remember, wine drinking etiquette is about enhancing the enjoyment and experience of wine. It’s about appreciating the craftsmanship, flavors, and aromas while respecting the traditions and culture surrounding wine. Enjoy the journey of discovering different wines, and embrace the pleasure that comes with savoring a good glass of wine.
