Using the right glassware for your wines can greatly enhance the flavor of your drinks. From reds to whites, you need to be aware of the types of wine glasses that are available. Red wine glasses support oxidation, while white ones bring out the rich sweetness of port wines. Sparkling wine glasses maintain the iconic bubbles, while all-purpose glasses are the best choice for lighter wines. Here is a guide to different types of Wine glasses and how to use them.
Red wine glasses support oxidation
Red wine glasses support oxidation by increasing the surface area of the wine in contact with oxygen. Wide bowls also allow the wine to be swirled in the glass, which promotes oxidation. While red wine glasses come in many shapes and sizes, they all have similar functionalities. They can enhance or reduce the oxidation process depending on the wine. Here are some tips for choosing the right wine glass for your needs.
White wine glasses bring out the rich sweetness of port wines
When it comes to serving port, there is a specific glass to use. Often called dessert wines, port is sweeter and has higher alcohol content than other wines. A smaller bowl and pour are appropriate for port, and the glass’s rounded shape helps release aromatics. During the pour, the body heat from the hand helps preserve the aromatics. A few things to consider when selecting the right glass for port include its intended use, frequency of use, and care requirements.
Sparkling wine glasses maintain the iconic bubbles
The perfect sparkling wine glass will maintain the iconic bubbles while serving the drink at the right temperature. Traditionally, this wine is served slightly warmer than the ideal temperature. However, today, specialized glassware is available that preserves the bubbles. For example, flutes are specially designed for serving sparkling wine and have a smaller surface area, allowing for fewer bubbles to oxidize. Tulip-shaped glasses have a larger bowl and a more open design, allowing the wine to retain aged brioche-like flavors.
All-purpose wine glasses are perfect for lighter wines
You can use stemless wine glasses for a variety of beverages. These inexpensive glasses come with a wide bowl to display big reds and whites, as well as cocktails. These glasses are made of shatter-resistant crystal and are dishwasher safe. The disadvantage of these glasses is that they might not be the best choice for you if you are concerned about the temperature of your drink. Some people worry that hand-warming these glasses will change the flavor of the wine.
Disposable plastic wine glasses are a bad choice from an ecological point of view
While disposable plastic wine glasses may be convenient and inexpensive, they are a poor choice from an ecological standpoint. They do not decompose in the environment like glass does, so they are not recycled. Plus, they don’t stack well and are prone to spills. This means that the more you use them, the more you’ll have to throw away. And that’s not all – there are other reasons to avoid plastic wine glasses besides the fact that they are a bad choice.