Curious Stemster

Dear Curious Stemster,

Thank you for your intriguing question about the proper way to hold a wine glass and the reasoning behind it. The fuss about holding the glass by the stem is not merely wine snobbery; there are four genuine reasons for this practice.

1. Temperature Matters

Wine’s temperature can significantly impact its taste and aroma. When you hold the glass by the bowl, your hands emit warmth that can subtly alter the wine’s temperature. By holding the stem, you prevent unnecessary temperature changes and ensure a more consistent tasting experience.

2. Fingers Off, Aromas On

The delicate aromas of wine are an essential part of the tasting experience. When you hold the glass by the bowl, your fingerprints and hand odors are closer to your nose, potentially interfering with those precious aromas. By grasping the stem, you can fully savor the scents without any distractions.

3. Aesthetic Appreciation

Wine is not just a delightful beverage; it’s also an art form. The color and clarity of wine can be admired through the glass, but when you hold the bowl, your fingers might obstruct the view. Holding the stem allows you to appreciate the wine’s beauty in its entirety.

4. It’s Fancy

Let’s face it, holding a wine glass by the stem exudes a certain level of elegance and refinement. It has become a tradition and a subtle display of wine etiquette, especially in formal settings or wine tasting events.

However, it’s essential to note that there’s nothing inherently wrong with stemless wine glasses. They are practical and have their place, especially for casual gatherings or outdoor events. However, you’ll rarely find them in winery tasting rooms.

In the end, the most important thing is to enjoy your wine. Whether you choose to hold the glass by the stem or the bowl, the pleasure of savoring the wine’s flavors and aromas is what truly matters.

cheers,