Next time you raise a glass of chilled white, rosé, or sparkling wine, remember this simple tip: grip the stem instead of the bowl. This small change helps keep your wine at the right temperature, letting you savor each sip as the winemaker intended.
- Hold wine glasses by the stem, not the bowl.
- Avoid warming wine with your hands to maintain flavor.
- Fill glasses only one-third to allow aroma release.
What happened
Wine experts consistently advise holding a wine glass by its stem rather than the bowl, as this affects the wine’s temperature and overall experience. When you hold the glass by the bowl, your body heat transfers quickly, warming chilled wines and altering their flavor profile and aromas.
Warming can mute bright notes and intensify less desirable traits in various wines. For example, a crisp Chardonnay may become flat and a lively rosé can lose its vibrancy. This is especially important during warm weather when wine temperatures can rise quickly even without hand contact.
Why it feels good
Holding the glass by the stem prevents your warm hands from altering the wine’s ideal serving range—between 45°F and 55°F for whites and rosés, and up to 68°F for reds—ensuring each sip delivers the intended taste sensation. This cooler touch preserves the lively character of delicate wines and sharpens their aroma.
This practice also feels refined and mindful, encouraging you to slow down and appreciate the nuances of your wine. It adds a touch of elegance to any gathering and helps you get the most enjoyment from your bottle, whether you’re relaxing at home or entertaining guests.
What to enjoy or watch next
Try this simple adjustment next time you pour your favorite white, rosé, or sparkling wine, especially on a warm afternoon or evening. Pair the glass with a gentle pour, filling it about one-third full, and keep your glass shaded if enjoying outdoors to avoid quick warming from sunlight.
Consider exploring classic wine glass shapes to enhance your experience. And for casual settings, stemless glasses work well with reds or drinks less temperature sensitive. Embracing these small tips elevates everyday wine moments into a more flavorful, aromatic, and pleasurable experience.