The structure of the wine glass

The structure of the wine glass

Three main elements form the wine glass: the stem, the foot and the bowl. Other elements, less known to the general public, have their importance. This is what we will see below.

Let’s start with the main elements:

• The stem, also known as the base, allows the glass to be balanced.

• The foot connects the stem to the glass container. It is this element that allows you to hold your glass during tasting.

• The bowl (also called chalice), represents the container and allows the drink to be poured inside.

Let’s move on to the next ones:

• The gob is the lower part of the bowl, which acts on the oxygenation of the wine. It can take different shapes (round, straight, etc.).

• The shoulder is the widest part of the bowl. It allows the development of the wine’s aromas.

• The chimney, the upper part of the bowl and narrower than the rest, prevents the aromas from escaping.

• Finally the rim of the bowl, where you put your lips, has an impact on the taste of the wine when tasting it.

It is all these elements, assembled together, that give the distinctive and recognizable shape of wine glasses.

Choosing your wine glass

During the tasting, 3 of our senses are activated: sight, smell and taste. And the wine glass plays a decisive role for each one. Some characteristics are particularly important to consider when choosing a glassware.

1. The transparency influences the visual analysis. Indeed, it is important to see the colour, the robe of the wine to fully appreciate the tasting.

2. The size and shape of the glass which influence the gustatory and olfactory analysis. For example, with the diameter of the container larger than that of the opening, the aromas (volatile molecules) of the wine spread and reach the taster’s nose. Be careful however not to have an opening that is too closed because the aromas will not be perceived.

3. Be careful when choosing the glass because its thickness also plays a role in the tasting. For an optimal olfactory analysis, the rim must be as thin as possible. The finer it is, the more the taste will run through your mouth.

July Household is a Personalized Wine Glass manufacturer, more contact us.