Wine Stemware For Elegant Drinking
Wine stemware, when taken seriously, is not a generic group of goblets and glasses. For the connoisseur, there is no place for plastic. Moreover, the shape of a vessel will depend on its contents.
First there are the crystal pieces. These can be among the most expensive, but also elegant and long lasting glasses you own. Imported versions can cost as much per glass as you might spend on a complete set with decanter made from cheaper materials. Bars and restaurants seldom stock colored glass, though hand-blown items can be exquisite. Consumers are meant to value artistry in the making of their drink, not necessarily in the article they hold between their fingers. Plain glass is preferred. Metal also features, though it has not caught on to the same extent as the other two.
Stemless drinking glasses have come on to the scene recently. They provide a serious advantage: they do not tip as easily. However they affect the temperature of the wine since the glass is held with the hand. Also, when not used for Chenin Blanc (known also as Pineau de la Loire among other names), they can be used with other beverages.
When you want to pour a bubbling Brut or sparkling Champagne, fluted stemware is the way to go. Not only does it look elegant, but it is also practical. While the glass is tipped and liquid poured down one side, bubbles will threaten to overflow. Since this is a tall glass a controlled pour will not permit such an accident.
As for red wine, aroma is a big part of your enjoyment. Pouring into a deep, bulbous vessel gives the consumer room to do two things. One is to smell: stick your nose right in the glass and get a good whiff of berries and fruits. The other thing you want to do is swirl your liquid to release its fine flavors. With such a large piece of stemware, nothing should spill. One is only meant to pour in an inch or two at a time while a wide bottom curved in slightly closer to the top adds protection.
For regular white wine, a cross between the two is usual. Slightly wide, but not as tall as red will likely serve. Then again, nothing as narrow as your Champagne flute is required since there should be no bubbles. In commercial settings one is often served in quite big glasses.
Restaurants and wineries often stock good quality accessories because they wear well. The slightest ding on cheap glass will cause it to crack, chip or even scratch. This makes them unattractive and less hygienic.
