How to hold a wine glass?

The Art of the Hold: How to Hold a Wine Glass Properly

You have selected the perfect vintage, allowed it to breathe, and set a beautiful table. But the moment you pick up your glass, you might be unknowingly undoing all that effort.

Holding a wine glass seems simple, but in the world of fine dining and wine appreciation, the "hold" is about much more than just etiquette—it is about physics, temperature, and maximizing the tasting experience.

At Sottile Cru, we believe that the vessel is just as important as the wine itself. Whether you are using our exquisite glassware or simply enjoying a casual drink, mastering the grip is the first step to drinking like a sommelier.

Why Does It Matter How You Hold the Glass?

Before we get to the technique, it is important to understand why wine professionals insist on holding the glass by the stem rather than the bowl.

• Temperature Control: Your body heat is significantly higher than the ideal serving temperature of wine (especially whites and champagnes). According to the WSET Global guide on serving temperatures, even a slight rise in temperature can alter the delicate flavor profile of a vintage. Holding the bowl transfers heat directly to the liquid.

• Visual Clarity: Grabbing the bowl leaves unsightly fingerprints and smudges. To truly appreciate the color and clarity of the wine, you need a crystal-clear view through the glass.

• The Swirl: A proper swirl releases the wine's aromatics. As noted by experts at Decanter Magazine, this mechanical motion is fluid and easy when holding the stem, but difficult and risky when gripping the bowl.

The Correct Technique: Stem vs. Bowl

The golden rule of wine etiquette is simple: Always pinch the stem.

1. The Thumb and Forefinger Pinch This is the standard, most stable hold. Place your thumb and forefinger on the stem, just above the base. Your remaining fingers can rest naturally on the foot of the glass for stability. This keeps your hand far away from the bowl, ensuring the wine stays cool and the glass remains smudge-free.

2. The Base Hold For a more stylized look often seen in professional tastings, you can hold the glass by the foot (base). Pinch the base between your thumb and forefinger. This offers the maximum distance between your warm hand and the wine.

For a visual guide on these holds, you can check out Wine Folly's etiquette tips, which reinforce the importance of keeping your hands off the bowl.

Elevating the Experience with Sottile Cru

Knowing how to hold the glass is essential, but the glass you are holding makes the statement. A proper hold requires a perfectly balanced stem and a bowl designed to capture aroma.

At Sottile Cru, we combine French elegance with functional design. Our collection is crafted to feel weightless in the hand, making the proper stem-hold feel natural rather than forced.

• Explore our Collection: Discover the perfect vessel for your favorite vintage on our Glassware Page.

• Our Philosophy: Learn about the craftsmanship and tradition behind every piece we create on our About Page.

Completing the Table

Wine is rarely enjoyed in isolation; it is the centerpiece of the dining experience. Once you have mastered the art of the wine glass, the next step is ensuring your table setting reflects the same level of sophistication.

Pair your Sottile Cru glassware with our stunning cutlery collections to create a cohesive aesthetic. The shine of high-quality silver complements the clarity of fine crystal, turning a simple dinner into an occasion.

• Set the Table: Browse our exclusive Silverware Collection to find the perfect match for your glassware.

Final Thoughts

Etiquette is not about being snobbish; it is about removing barriers between you and the best possible experience. By holding your glass by the stem, you ensure the wine tastes exactly as the winemaker intended. And by choosing Sottile Cru, you ensure that every sip is taken in style.