The proper way to drink wine

Enjoy responsibly

MWK Productions

An old Garner Senior High classmate recently asked questions about wine etiquette such as the proper way to hold the glass and red vs. white wines. Some people would answer the question “what is the proper way to drink wine?” with the response: "uncork, pour then pick your favorite chair on the deck and let the relaxation begin". While that is a great answer, there are some proper rules to follow with some interesting reasons. So let’s learn how to drink wine!

How to hold the glass

Think about this: when you hold a glass bowl of ice cream in your hand, the temperature of your hand will cause the ice cream to get warmer. The same is true if you hold the globe of the wine glass. The temperature of your hand would warm chilled wines faster and warm room temperature wines as well. The “proper” way to hold the glass is by the stem with your index finger and thumb.

Smell then taste or taste then smell? And where does swirling the wine fit in?

After the wine is uncorked, let it breath for about an hour. Once you glass is poured, do a small swirl of wine then take a deep sniff of the wine. Your smell will determine your perception of the taste and it is an important part of enjoying you glass. Next, take a small sip and let the wine linger in your mouth before you swallow. You want to take in all the flavors that the wine has to offer. Now that you have fully prepared your brain and mouth for your beverage, you are free to indulge in your glass.

Red vs. white

This one really boils down to your preference. White wines are traditionally chilled and served with a lighter meal such as fish or chicken. Red wines are typically room temperature and served with heavier meals such as beef or pasta. Dessert wines, regardless of color, are chilled. While it’s nice to have these suggestions, you may enjoy whatever wine you like with whatever meal you prefer.

Respect others

Some religions do not condone drinking alcohol of any kind. Don’t tease a friend or tempt them to try any if they prefer to sip on juice or ginger ale. That’s just not cool.If there is a friend in your circle of friends or a family member is a recovering alcoholic, please grant them the upmost respect and consideration. One sip for an alcoholic can reopen a door to absolute disaster. This is a line they don’t want to cross and you do not want to be responsible for encouraging them to cross.Do not drive, even small distances, if alcohol has given you a warm fussing feeling. That feeling means it is time to put away your keys.Please do not give your underage kids permission to drink at home. This tells your kids that’s it’s okay to break the law.