The glass for the occasion

Press, 23 April 1980, Page 25

The glass for the occasion

When you are entertaining the presentation of a drink is almost as important as its contents and a well-stocked bar contains a variety of glasses as well as a variety of bottles. Etiquette demands a minimum of four different shapes and sizes and many hosts may keep as many as eight types of glass. Beer should be served in large glasses up to 500mls in volume. Tankards, that is glasses with handles, are popular, especially for

informal occasions, but any large, straight-sided glass will do. These can double as long cocktail glasses if they are narrow and reasonably elegant. The fashion in spirit glasses is changing towards, large, heavybased types which feel pleasant in the hand and do not need, re-filling every few minutes. These are also used traditionally as short cocktail glasses suitable for Rusty Nail, Black Russian or Gin Sling drinks. Wine glasses come in a

huge range of shapes and sizes. While different people have different theories on which glass should be used for which w’ine, there is a simple rule to follow. To enjoy wine, the glass should be large enough to hold a generous helping without being more than half full. The glass should be rounded, cupping in towards the top so that the. bouquet of the wine does not escape the moment it is poured out. The glass should be stemmed so that the temperature of your

hand does not affect the temperature of the wine, and it should be clear so you can see the true colour of the wine. A glass which is right for one wine, however, is just as right for any other and two or three sizes should see you through most occasions. Generally, a red wine glass is larger, has a rounder bowl and a shorter stem while a white wine glass is taller, with a finer, longer stem to keep the chilled wine well away from the warmth of the hand. Beware of buying the most delicate longstemmed glasses — although they look elegant, the thin stems break very easily and they may be poorly balanced when full. Sherry, port and liqueur glasses will be necessary but one set, if chosen carefully, can be used, for all three drinks. Additions to your collection could include brandy balloons, if you enjoy a good cognac, and Irish coffee glasses for an after-dinner treat. Make sure your glasses are always sparkling clean. Wash them carefully in hot soapy water, rinse in warm, clean water, stand to dry and then polish with a soft linen tea towel. Nothing looks worse on fine glassware than fingermarks, streaks and grease spots and the extra effort in polishing glasses is well worth while.