Do you have the right wine glasses for the dinner party you are hosting?
While most people know there is a difference, they are not sure what type of wine glasses should be used for a red or white wine. The temperature of the wine may be your concern, but just as crucial, is the shape of the glass, which can influence the taste. Whether the glass directs the wine to the tip of the tongue, back of the mouth and/or sides of the mouth, you will appreciate the ultimate tasting experience when it comes to the wine you serve.
Main Types of Crystal Wine Glasses
Most wine enthusiasts know there are four glasses that are used more than others. Crystal wine glasses are the type recommended the most, because heavier makes of glass will most definitely change the taste of the wine. There are glasses for red wine; they are wide and tall so the niceties of the wine are savored. At least a couple of this type is recommended to have in your wine glass collection. This type is a Bordeaux glass. They are typically used for Merlots and Cabernets.
The second type is a white wine glass. They are smaller than others so the wine stays at the cool temperature it was served. The opening of this glass needs to be just a bit larger than glass itself. Another type for white wine is taller than the typical white wine glass. Straight and thinner this type is used for white wines that are aged a little more. Finally, everyone should have a Burgundy glass. They are larger still than the Bordeaux glass and allow the maximum enjoyment of this type of wine.
This is not to say you should not have a variety of crystal wine glasses that you use for different occasions. The champagne glass is a thin and tall glass. They are called champagne flutes and they are shaped like this for another reason besides the taste. They allow the bubbles to form in the glass of champagne.
When choosing the type of wine glasses you will use for a dinner, first consider the type of wine you will serve. This, of course, means the main wine. There are dessert wines that will be served later. Most are sweet and should be served in smaller, wider glasses.
The Riedel Collection
The first person to notice the aspects of wine were different according to what type of glass in which they were served was Professor Claus J. Riedel. If you are a wine lover, you have heard of the Riedel collection of crystal wine glasses. This collection is considered the best the world over when it comes to possessing the right glasses for serving wine.
Wine tantalizes the mouth, nose and eyes. The glass helps this to occur in the most pleasant way if you use the correct one. After working with wine tasters, Professor Riedel developed his own collection to bring out the characteristics of wine.
The Basics of Wine Glasses
A wine glass is made the way it is for a reason. The base is used to make sure the glass stays upright. The stem is for holding the glass to keep from warming the wine with your hands. The body of the glass is designed to show the clarity, allow the senses to be awakened and hold the wine until you are ready to drink.
There are general-purpose crystal wine glasses that may be used if you choose this type. They are clear and hold approximately ten ounces of wine. They should have just a little smaller rim than the body of the glass to help contain the aroma. This type of glass is great for a red wine, but one thing to remember is never serve a white wine in a red wine glass. This is a giant faux pas.
Although you probably never thought of it in that manner, unless you are a wine lover, the glass plays a big role in sending the wine to the parts of the mouth that will allow you to enjoy it to the fullest. Do not wait until the last minute to find out that you do not have the correct wine glasses for the wine you are serving for dinner. Buy a few different types to ensure you will be serving wine in the glass in which it is meant to be served.