Wine glasses… Do they make a difference? - Red wine sorbet

There are many types of glasses with such different shapes and materials that it can be overwhelming to know which one to use for each wine. One thing is truth: Our sensory perception of wine can change from glass to glass, and that is why it is important to know some basic differences.

A good set of glasses is a must for every wine lover, since regardless of its aesthetic appeal, the influence of the correct glass of wine on tasting is undeniable.

Today, I want to give you a quick guide to choose the most appropriate glass for the type of wine you are tasting. I'll start with the first things you need to know: Key elements.

• Glass of Chardonnay: Common materials for wine glasses are glass and crystal. There is a big difference between the two materials. Crystal is more porous and will keep the temperature for a longer time allowing the aromas to express better. On the other hand, its tactile sensation is much more delicate, and its thinness gives a special sensation when drinking the wine. So, my recommendationinvest in crystal glasses for a better experience.

• Size: It influences the aromatic quality and intensity. Glasses with a medium goblet go well with young wines, usually white and rosé, where the fruity notes will be enhanced.

On the other hand, red wines usually need larger "balls" where there is more space to oxygenate them and awaken the hidden aromas.

• Stem: It must be thin and long enough to be able to hold it without our hand touching the chalice without transmitting our temperature to the wine.

• Shape: The glasses must have a convex shape, that is, after the width of the calyx, the mouth must be closed, and the rim must slope inwards to enhance the aromas. The more open the diameter of the rim, the more our head will lean forward.

Choosing the right shape for each wine will make the positive elements stand out and the negatives mask out. Some types (most common) are:

• Flute or Tulip Type Glasses: They are more convenient for sparkling wines since they will allow the wine to express itself without losing temperature, and its narrow mouth helps to preserve the aromas without the bubbles (carbon dioxide) escaping.

• Bordeaux Type Glass: Its design facilitates the breathing of the drink which enhances the characteristics of structured reds, which is why it is usually recommended for red wines (usually young) with good body such as Rioja, Bordeaux, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

• Burgundy Type Glass: Large volume and wide glass, it is usually recommended for wines with body, high acidity (the direction of the glass conceals the acidity) and moderate tannins, its large chalice highlights the aromatic nuances, perfect for a Pinot Noir or a Burgundy.

• Glass of Chardonnay: The glasses for white or rosé wines are usually smaller than those for red and with a more closed mouth. This particular design allows the low acidity that chardonnays normally present to be offset by alcohol and fruity aromas, giving a longer finish.

Other considerations:

- Take care that your glasses are completely transparent (fine and colorless glass) in order to better appreciate the benefits as well as the colors, reflections and even the defects that the wine has.

- Before serving wine, it is highly recommended to verify that the glasses are clean, without dust or odors of any kind. Try to keep them in their box wrapped in blotting paper and not face down on wooden furniture or near the area where we cook since the aromas will impregnate them, likewise it is not convenient to store them in the freezer.

I hope this quick guide helps you select the most suitable glass for the wine you have chosen.

Finally, I want to share a very easy recipe, of course with wine! It is a dessert made with red wine (you can substitute for rosé) that is very refreshing, aromatic and original. Perfect for the hot season!

Red wine sorbet

INGREDIENTS:

1 bottle of red wine 750ml

250gr of brown sugar

2 cinnamon sticks

Lemon zest

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.- Boil all the ingredients.

2.- Once all the alcohol has evaporated, turn off the heat, strain and let it cool to room temperature.

* To find out if all the alcohol has evaporated: Take out a little wine with a spoon and try to light it carefully with a lighter or match, if it does not light the alcohol it will have already evaporated and you can continue.

3.- Pour all the liquid into a not too deep container, and store in the freezer. Every hour, using a fork, stir the mixture and put it back in the freezer. Repeat this step several times, until you get a "slush" or "scraped" texture.

4.- Once frozen, serve in individual glasses like ice cream. Accompany with pieces of fruit such as mango, or red fruits and decorate with a mint leaf.

Cheers and bon appetite!

If you liked this article, check more about wine in our section Vino para todos!