Nowadays, it is easy to enjoy delicious wine at restaurants, izakayas, and even at home. However, many people still have the impression that "wine is difficult!" This may be because wine is a foreign alcoholic beverage and is ranked according to strict criteria, making it seem like a high hurdle. Also, there are probably many people who think that "the way to drink wine is different from Japanese alcoholic beverages."
However, in Europe, where wine originates, it is considered to be something that can be enjoyed and enjoyed casually. There is certainly a way that is considered the "correct way" to drink wine, but this is purely for the sake of enjoying it and drinking it deliciously.
So, this time I would like to explain in an easy-to-understand way how to open, pour, and drink wine for those who are new to wine. I hope you will read it casually for reference.
What is the correct way to drink wine?
～For a delicious drink～
There is a way that is said to be the "correct way" to drink wine. Some people think that "any way is fine as long as it tastes good," and of course that's true. However, the correct way to drink wine is also the "best way to drink wine" that has been devised throughout the history of wine, so it's good to know about it. Also, even when drinking wine in a slightly formal restaurant, it's reassuring to have a basic knowledge of wine.
How to open wine
We will explain how to open a bottle using a "sommelier knife." Although it is called a "knife," the cork is removed using the screw part. The blade part is only used when peeling off the cap seal. The cork is removed using the principle of leverage, so no strong force is required.
1. Use the knife part to peel off the cap seal.
*Make cuts around each of the protruding parts on the sides, insert the knife into the cuts, and pull upwards.
2. Remove the screw from the body and place the tip of the screw into the center of the cork.
3. Insert it straight in while turning it, and turn it about 3 times.
4. Attach the hook to the bottle and use the lever to remove the cork.
5. Pull the entire knife as if you were removing a cork from a bottle.
Those with one hook are called "single action types," and those with two hooks are called "double action types." Double action types allow you to pull the cork out in two steps, so you can remove it without using much force.
What if the cork breaks?
If the cork breaks, use a spoon or other thin object to push the cork back into the bottle, then transfer the bottle to another container before drinking. When transferring the bottle, use a tea strainer or coffee filter to remove any broken pieces of cork.
What if you wanted an easier way to open wine?
If you think using a sommelier knife is difficult, try searching for "wine opener." You'll find a variety of items, including screw pulls, automatic openers, lever-type and wing-type openers. All of them have been developed to make opening wine easier than using a sommelier knife, so choose the one that you find easiest to use.
How to pour wine
Next, we will explain how to pour wine. Sommeliers pour with one hand, but that is only how a trained person would pour. Beginners, in particular, should use both hands to avoid dropping the bottle.
1. Hold the bottle with both hands, supporting the bottom and the underside.
2. Tilt the glass so that the wine label is facing up and pour slowly.
3. Fill the glass about one-third full with wine.
*If using sparkling wine, pour in two portions.
4. Rotate the bottle to lift it up.
The host will taste the sake and then pour for the guests. Priority will be given to female guests, but if there are multiple female guests, please be mindful of seniority.
How to drink wine
When you are the one being poured wine, unlike beer, you should wait until the pour is finished without holding the glass. When drinking, hold the stem of the glass with your thumb, index finger, and middle finger. This is to prevent the wine from getting too warm due to the heat of your hands.
Some wines will bring out more of their aroma if you swirl the glass two or three times before drinking. If you have a sommelier, you can ask them beforehand if swirling is necessary. On the other hand, if you take a sip and think the wine is good enough, or if it is sparkling wine, or wine in a decanter rather than a bottle, then swirling is not necessary.
summary
・The correct way to drink wine is just one way to enjoy it, and it doesn't have to be done strictly.
・Using a sommelier knife or opener makes it easier to open without using force.
When pouring wine, hold the bottle with both hands, with the label facing up so the other person can see it, and pour slowly.
When drinking wine, hold the stem of the glass with your thumb, index finger, and middle finger.
That's the "correct way" to drink wine. Many of you may have found it surprisingly easy. If you're drinking at a high-end restaurant, you can leave it to the sommelier, but in a friendly setting where you're enjoying a drink with friends, the minimum manners introduced in this article will be fine. Relax and enjoy the taste and aroma of the wine itself.
Tableware for enjoying wine even more
To make your wine more delicious and enjoyable, be sure to pay attention to the tableware you use.
At RIVERET, we offer a wide variety of tableware to help you enjoy the full wine experience.
Bordeaux
A Bordeaux-style wine glass also known as a tulip-shaped glass.
This is a versatile glass that allows you to enjoy a variety of wines in a well-balanced way.
If you're unsure about what wine bottle to get, we recommend starting with this type.
[Bordeaux]
White/Brown
From 4,950 yen (tax included)
Burgundy
The "Burgundy" wine glass is characterized by a wide bowl (base) and a rim (opening) that narrows as it goes up.
When drinking, you need to tilt your chin relatively, which avoids the outer part of the tongue where acidity is felt, and allows the wine to flow naturally and easily over the tongue.
[Burgundy]
White/Brown
From 4,950 yen (tax included)
