1 day Ago
If you’ve ever wondered whether the type of wine glass actually matters, you’re not alone. With so many shapes and sizes on the market, it’s easy to assume it’s just marketing — or a matter of style. However, when it comes to enjoying wine at its best, the glass you use can genuinely make a difference.
The main role of a wine glass is to enhance the aromas, flavors and overall experience of the wine. Wine is a complex beverage, and much of what we perceive as "taste" actually comes from our sense of smell. A good glass is designed to capture and concentrate those aromas right where your nose meets the wine, creating a fuller, more nuanced experience.
Red wines typically benefit from larger, rounder bowls. A glass with a wide bowl allows more oxygen to interact with the wine, softening tannins and unlocking deeper aromas. Think of a big, bold Cabernet Sauvignon or a delicate Pinot Noir; the right glass can highlight the best qualities of each.
White wines, on the other hand, usually shine in smaller, narrower glasses. The smaller opening helps preserve the delicate floral and fruity aromas while keeping the wine cooler for longer — key for lighter varietals like Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling. Traditional wine glasses have stems for a reason: holding the glass by the stem keeps the heat of your hand away from the bowl, helping maintain the ideal temperature of the wine.
Stemless glasses, while stylish and casual, might cause your wine to warm up faster — something to keep in mind, especially with whites and sparkling wines. You’ll also find glasses specifically designed for Champagne, dessert wines and even particular varietals like Bordeaux or Burgundy. While these specialized glasses can enhance certain characteristics, they’re not strictly necessary for everyday drinking.
A versatile, all-purpose wine glass can still provide an excellent experience for most wines. While you don't need a cupboard full of specialized glassware to enjoy wine, the right glass can absolutely elevate your experience. If you're just starting out, investing in a quality set of universal wine glasses is a smart move.
As your wine journey evolves, you might find it fun — and rewarding — to experiment with different shapes and styles. After all, wine is all about enjoyment — and sometimes, the right glass really does make the moment even better. This past week, we celebrated my wife Mary’s birthday with a group of close friends at the new Katch 22 at 2942 W Gulf-to-Lake Highway, Lecanto.
First impressions: The restaurant — and especially the bar — is absolutely beautiful and provides a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere. The corkage fee is $25, which we found very reasonable given the quality of the dining experience. Our party of 12 sampled almost everything on the menu.
The appetizers were all excellent, with standouts including the foie gras, pork belly and the beet salad (a personal favorite of Mary’s). The main courses didn’t disappoint either — everyone thoroughly enjoyed their meals, with the crusted sea bass and short rib being clear highlights. A huge thank-you to the service team, who were attentive and on point, and to the entire staff for making Mary’s birthday such a memorable experience.
We’ll definitely be back! The Wine Shop is thrilled to be part of Crystal River Uncorked, hosted by Crystal River Main Street on May 8 from 5-8 p.m. Join us for an evening of wine, food and fun as you explore 10 tasting stops at local businesses throughout our beautiful historic downtown.
Tickets are $20 for general admission and $50 for the VIP experience. Get tickets now at www.crystalrivermainstreet.
com (Events Page), tinyurl.com/CRUcorked , and follow Crystal River Main Street and the event page for updates. RSVP soon: We can’t wait to share these unforgettable experiences with you.
Marc Marshall is owner of The Wine Shop & Wine Bar, 244 U.S. 19 SE, in Crystal River.
Visit www.thewinesgood.com .
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