Selecting A Glass For Every Wine
Do you feel confident selecting a glass for every wine? Even if you’re not wine savvy you may already know that different wines are served in certain glasses. The reason for this is to make the most of flavours and fragrances. There are subtle differences in shapes and sizes of glasses that work best for different types of beverages. It’s also true that one glass type can be used across a several different styles of drinks. Other glasses are best kept for special occasions where no other drinks would make sense in that style of glass.
Sparkling wines
While vintage champagne coupes or saucers make a style statement the bubbles dissipate faster and the shape does nothing for the flavour development. We love the idea of serving sparkling white wine as a palate cleanser in between courses. Why not serve a beautiful dessert in a stemless champagne glass as a new and exciting idea? Versatility really is key with this striking vessel.
A classic champagne flute is more suitable for sparkling wines with its tall shape. Did you know that the purpose is to keep the bubbles from dissipating? The reason for the slightly tapered rim is to keep the scent and fragrance close to your nose. Tulip shaped flutes have been becoming more and more popular and are also great for more complex sparkling wines. We love tulip flutes for vintage Champagnes or Prosecco as the wider surface maximizes the surface-to-air space. This in turn allows subtle aeration inside the glass and the development of beautiful aromatics.
Young, aromatic white wines
We recommend customers serve aromatic white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chablis and crisp acidic Chardonnays in elegant narrow glasses which have a tapered top to concentrate the aromas. The fruity nature of rose is emphasised in a glass with this type of moderate width.
Aged white wines
Bold Chardonnays are best served in oversized bowl glasses that allow plenty of air into the glass to coax out its subtle flavours. You can also serve this style of white wine in a more casual stemless glass as the heat from the drinker’s hand will warm the wine to unleash its flavours.
Young red wines
New world Pinot Noirs served in a glass with a wide bowl and tapered contours allow for optimum aeration and a concentrated bouquet. However fruitier and richer Pinot Noirs are better appreciated when served in tapered glasses with a gentle swelling in the middle so that the bouquet can develop fully.
Red wines with a little more body
Concentrated red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignons, Grenache Shiraz and Mataro/Mourvèdre develop well in a glass with a tall, generous bowl as the breadth encourages oxidation and the elongated shape limits alcohol fumes.
Australian Shiraz and full-bodied red wines
Connoisseurs can appreciate the intensity of a rich, full-bodied Australian Shiraz from a large wine glass that has a wide shape to aerate the wine and narrow rim that focuses the bouquet.
The nightcap
Finish the evening by serving your favourite Brandy or Cognac in traditional glasses. The round bowl and short stem of these style glasses encourages drinkers to warm the glass with their hands. This in turn releases the wine-based spirit’s aromas.
For the love of cocktails
Whatever takes your fancy, a cocktail is the epitome of fun and happy times. Whether it’s drinking with friends, a designated cocktail night or just trying different ideas for yourself at home, a gorgeous cocktail glass adds to the playfulness of drinking this type of beverage.
Remember, House & Garden stocks an impressive range of glassware to help you with the perfect beverage companion for you and your guests. Impress your guests and take time to enjoy your favourite wine with glassware to suit all occasions and wine styles. Choose from well known brands such as Krosno, Salt&Pepper or Avanti to name just a few.
