Have you ever wondered if you’re holding your wine glass the right way? It may seem like a small detail, but there’s actually a good reason why wine experts recommend one method over the other. Many people naturally hold the bowl of the glass because it feels more comfortable, while others carefully grip the stem. If you’ve ever questioned which is correct, you’re definitely not alone.
Holding the bowl may feel secure, but it can warm the wine much faster because the heat from your hand transfers directly into the glass. It also leaves fingerprints on the bowl, making the glass look smudged. Holding the stem, on the other hand, helps keep the wine at its ideal temperature while keeping the glass clean and clear.
There’s another advantage to using the stem. It makes swirling the wine much easier, allowing more oxygen to mix with it and helping release its aromas and flavors. That’s one of the reasons sommeliers and wine enthusiasts almost always hold their glasses by the stem rather than the bowl.
At the end of the day, there’s no rule that says you can’t enjoy your wine however you like. But if you want to keep it tasting the way it was meant to and add a touch of elegance, holding the stem is the better choice. It’s a simple habit that can make every glass feel a little more special.
