The reason why wine glasses have stems and stand apart from others

Wine glasses are designed with stems and a specific shape to enhance the wine-drinking experience. The stem serves several purposes. Firstly, it allows the drinker to hold the glass without warming the wine with their hands. This is important because the temperature of the wine can greatly affect its taste and aroma.

Secondly, the stem provides a secure grip on the glass. Holding a wine glass by the bowl can be awkward and unstable, especially when trying to swirl the wine. The stem allows for a more comfortable and controlled grip, making it easier to swirl the wine and release its aromas.

The shape of the wine glass also plays a crucial role in the wine-drinking experience. The bowl of the glass is designed to direct the wine to the right areas of the mouth, allowing for the maximum appreciation of its flavours and aromas. The shape of the glass also allows for the formation of  “wine legs”, which are the streaks that form on the inside of the glass after swirling. The presence and movement of these legs can indicate the wine’s body, alcohol content, and age.

In addition to the stem and shape, the size of the wine glass is also important. Different wine glasses are designed for different types of wine, with the size and shape of the glass varying depending on the wine’s characteristics. For example, a wider bowl is typically used for red wines, as it allows for more surface area to release the wine’s aromas. A narrower bowl is typically used for white wines, as it focuses the aromas and prevents them from dissipating too quickly.

Overall, the design of wine glasses with stems and specific shapes serves to enhance the wine-drinking experience by allowing for proper temperature control, a secure grip, and the optimal appreciation of the wine’s flavours and aromas.