It is often chosen randomly, or just because it looks good, possibly from the shelf where you keep that fine china you seldom use. Yet, the glass is not just a mere decoration for your table or simply something you use for a toast with friends. The glass is a fundamental tool that can enhance the taste of the wine you drink. Just as every occasion requires a certain outfit, there is a right glass for every wine. Carelessly choosing the wrong glass is the same as going to a job interview in a pyjamas, climbing in a suit and tie, and go to bed with technical clothing on. After this short preamble, let us get deeper into the matter.
- The cleaning of the glass
Oenology sacred books demand that the glass be hand-washed with neutral soap. I do agree, but only party. Too much rinse agent may end up ruining future wine tastings, while washing your glasses in the dishwasher along with the dishes you used to eat carbonara will make your wine smell like egg. In short, using the dishwasher is fine, but a little caution is necessary. In the case of very delicate, possibly hand-mand glasses, however, this is no longer true. These kind of glasses must be necessarily hand-washed to avoid partial damaging or even breaking.
- Dust and humidity
Just a little piece of advice: while you are setting the table, sniff the glasses. If you have been keeping them in boxes down in your basement or cellar since 1918, they may be clean, but they may also have an unpleasant smell. The best thing would thus be to wash them before using them again.
- How to dry a glass
Safety rule: the stem of wine glasses is very fragile, especially if it has been washed in warm water, so avoid pressing too hard on it while wiping it dry as it may shatter.
- The flute