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Choosing Stemware
Written by:
Kim Giesbrecht, Acting Portfolio Manaer
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Stemware - The Right Glass for the Right Wine
Q: Is it necessary to use the proper glass stemware designated for the different type of wine? i.e. red wine glass for red wine, white wine glass for white wines, Champagne flute for Champagne.
Will the aroma/taste of the wine be altered in any way if glass stemware is not used? Does the type of stemware make any difference?
A: Yes, the proper glass does make a significant difference. While I have drunk wine from a cup on occasion (around a campfire, etc.) and the wine tasted pretty good, with stemware it would have tasted better. Just as there are noticeable qualitative variations and characteristics between bottles of wine, there are also obvious differences in stemware. Choosing the right glass can enhance your appreciation of wine and many selections, although elaborate or expensive, may do nothing to aid the appreciation or characteristics of the wine.
How far you take the stemware depends on the wines you drink regularly and how serious you are about wine. Wine glasses should, however, be glass, uncut and clear. Tulip-shaped, tapering in at the rim preserves the aromas released when the wine is swirled. The glass should also have a stem to be held properly. By holding on to the stem, it helps to keep the glass clear for assessing appearance and to maintain the temperature of the wine. The rim is another factor; it should be fine and thin so you notice the taste of the wine over the sensation of glass between your lips.
As far as size and shape are concerned, glassware is designed with differences for a reason. Red wine is generally served in larger glasses than is white. This provides more aeration and enhances the bouquet of a ‘closed or restrained’ red wine. In fact, the ideal wine glass tends to be big, but you can use it for either red or white table wines. This type of glass is a basic essential.
Sherry should be served in a small tulip-shaped glass, or copita, which is also a useful size for port or dessert wines, which are usually served in smaller quantities. If you enjoy these types of wine, you may want to purchase a set of smaller glasses. If you enjoy Champagne or sparkling wine, it may be worthwhile investing in a set of tall, slim champagne flutes, which are much better at retaining and preserving bubbles than the traditional saucer-shaped glass..
For those with a passion, it is possible to buy a glass suited to every major type of wine and grape variety, an idea pioneered by Austrian glass-maker Georg Riedel. His glassware design is based on the premise that the glass enhances or modifies the acidity, fruitiness and tannin by delivering the wine to a particular place in the mouth. If the rim is designed to ensure the first contact is the tip of the tongue, the wine's fruitiness will be accentuated. If it deposits the wine towards the back of the palate it will stress the tannins, as this is where bitterness is perceived. These glasses can be purchased at many wine boutiques and retailers and are available in varying quality levels with appropriate pricing. You may consider buying a few glasses for that special bottle of wine or occasion, much like bringing out the good china.
So whatever your level of appreciation, it is wise to have couple of glasses for serving your favourite wines. On a final note, there is one key tip that will add as much to your enjoyment and appreciation as choosing the right glass: don't fill it too full! About a third to halfway is perfect as this allows you to swirl the wine, releasing the aromas, without making a mess and looking like an amateur.
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All prices are subject to change without notice. Not all products shown are available at all BC Liquor Store locations.
Prices shown do not include container deposit cost where applicable.
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