Why is wine served in a glass?
Why is wine served in a glass? The container in which wine is served has an unsuspected importance. Although many wonder why wine is drunk in a glass and not in a glass, the answer is not simple; in fact it is a combination of science, tradition and pleasure. Far beyond being a simple subjective preference, the choice of a glass for wine tasting is what allows us to fully appreciate this ancient drink.
Why is wine drunk from glasses?
Reason for the shape of the cups
The design and shape of the glass is based on the desire to enhance the sensory characteristics of the drink. Narrowness of the glass at the top is what allows the aromas to be concentrated towards the taster’s nose. The olfactory experience is thus richer and more complete. On the contrary, a glass with a wider opening disperses the aromas and reduces the ability to capture all the nuances of the wine.
The stem of the wine glass is not, as one might think, a mere aesthetic element. In reality, it fulfils an essential practical function: holding the glass by the stem is what prevents the heat of the hands from being transferred to the wine, and temperature is a fundamental factor in tasting: it significantly alters the aromas and flavours of the wine.
transparency of the wine glass
Tasting begins with the eyes, which is why translucent and transparent glasses are used. By observing the color and clarity of the wine, the composition can be distinguished; color can provide clues about the age and type of wine, while clarity can indicate its purity and condition. An opaque or colored glass would not allow for this detailed observation, limiting the visual experience that complements the tasting.
Wine aeration
You’ve probably heard that wine needs to breathe; it’s true: the wine glass, with its bowl shape, provides a greater surface area for the wine to come into contact with the air. This process is essential for the wine to unfold its full aromatic potential. In a glass, the surface area in contact with the air is much smaller, which restricts aeration and, consequently, the sensory experience. This is taught in more advanced topics that you have to study to become a wine taster.
Try the ideal glass of wine
Choosing a glass instead of a tumbler to serve wine is therefore not a question of etiquette, but a practice based on sensorial and scientific principles. The shape, stem, transparency and aeration capacity of the wine glass are the determining factors to maximize the appreciation of aromas, flavors and colors.
We are sure that with these reasons in mind, the enjoyment of the art of tasting will increase, as well as the appreciation of science and tradition. It’s time to put it into practice! Take our wine tasting Barcelona and experience new experiences with us.
