The right wine glass is important, even though it depends on your taste. It can make the difference between an average glass of wine and one that’s great. Glassware is important to improve the taste of wine. Different glass shapes can affect the density and location of vapors. These vapors are the source of many flavors in wine. Discover our top tips and an exclusive offer for members of Plumm to receive 20% off all glassware.
Red versus white wine glasses
The best way to serve white wine is in a smaller, bowled-shaped glass. The small bowl helps preserve the delicate aromas of fruit and flowers.
Chardonnay, Viognier, and other full-bodied white wines with oaky flavors are best served in a larger glass that has a wider mouth. The larger mouth of the glass helps to highlight the creamy texture and warms the wine to the ideal drinking temperature.
It is best to serve red wines in large bowled glasses, as this allows the wine to breathe and come into contact with the air.
Choose a smaller opening and a larger bowl for lighter red wines such as Pinot Noir. This design captures more delicate floral and fruit aromas. Choose a taller for more tanninous wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux Blends. This design allows maximum aeration and perfect harmony between oak, tannin, aroma, and palate.
Sparkling wine
Although it may seem like a great idea to drink Champagne or Sparkling Wine from a coupe, the design of the glass allows bubbles to disperse quickly.
To get the most out of these bubbles and flavors, you should drink sparkling wine in a glass or a tulip shape.
Stemmed versus stemless
Stemless Glasses have become more popular in recent years. They’re easier and safer to break. Although stemmed or stemless glasses can be chosen based on personal preference, most wine lovers prefer stemmed glassware.
By holding the stem rather than the bowl of the glass, you can prevent your hands from heating the wine excessively or too fast. Branches can also be useful for swirling wine. Glasses with stems make it easier to release the aromas.
How to care for your glassware
People make the mistake of not cleaning or storing their glasses correctly. Many glasses can be washed in the dishwasher, which makes them easier to clean. Use a high-quality dishwashing tablet to clean your glasses. Also, stack them carefully so as not to break or scratch them.
Hand-washing your glassware with warm water and a little soap is recommended. It would be best if you also washed them using a fresh sponge or cloth. Your glassware can pick up any old smells from your sponge, which will affect the taste and aroma of your wine.
Air drying is also recommended for glassware. By using cloths to dry your glassware, you can introduce lint and odors into the glass. This increases the risk of breaking. Avoid twisting your mirror when you dry or polish it by hand. This can increase the risk of infringement.
Store your wine glasses away from the stove and oven in a closed cabinet. The mirrors will not pick up unwanted cooking smells. It may seem safe to store them in their boxes or upside-down in a cabinet, but this can cause the glasses to develop a musty/cardboard smell that will affect the aroma of your wine. If you plan to keep the drinks in this manner, it is better to wash them before using them.
Plumm Levantine Hill Member Offer – 20% Discount on Glassware
Plumm, the first Australian brand of glassware designed specifically for wine styles, was born in Melbourne. Plumm, made in Europe of the highest quality crystal and designed to be enjoyed every day, is produced in Europe.