Observance of social etiquette is a pass to high society and a sign of good breeding, but knowing how to properly hold a glass will allow you to not only show off your manners, but also enjoy the taste of the drink, maintaining the right temperature.
“Tulips”, wine glasses and other glasses “with a stem” were invented for a reason – it is this form that helps the drink to open up and be saturated with oxygen. In no case should the taster wrap his hand around the cup, no matter how convenient it may seem – not only will untidy prints remain on the thin glass, the wine will also heat up, which will certainly affect its taste.
Glasses for red, white wine and champagne are held exclusively by the stem, and with at least three fingers (the fuller the vessel, the more difficult it is to hold it, so etiquette does not prohibit the use of all five fingers).
But a cognac glass can be comfortably “nested” in the palm of your hand – this drink will only benefit from the warmth of your hand. For greater effect, the snifter can be slightly shaken so that the amber liquid washes the walls – this way the cognac will become even more aromatic and tastier.
A vodka glass is firmly taken with three fingers and immediately overturned the contents without savoring.
Beer glasses are also taken in a simple way with the whole palm, however, so that the cold lager, stout or ale does not heat up, they do not hold it in their hands, but take a sip and immediately put the vessel on the table. In Bavaria and some beer bars, special liter mugs for beer are in use, they are held by a massive handle, supporting a heavy burden from below.
There is no need to grasp the stand in a mannered way – only experienced sommeliers and owners of their own wine cellars do this. Imitating a pro in this case will not increase your social status, but will only demonstrate a desire to stand out. This also applies to the capricious little finger protruding to the side.
How to hold a glass the European way
Abroad, some things are easier: by and large, no one cares exactly how you drink your wine. However, if you are suddenly invited to a reception by the Prince of Monaco, take note of the following ways to properly “grip”:
- The leg is clamped between the thumb and forefinger, the remaining fingers lie freely on the footboard.
- The leg is clamped “to a pinch”, as if you are holding a fountain pen.
- The thumb and forefinger hold the leg, the rest from below support the base.
There is another reason why connoisseurs of elite alcohol prefer not to grab the cup itself – this way you can enjoy the play of the color of the drink, admire its viscosity.