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Beyond the Bottle

How to Experiment with the Influence of Glassware on Wine Perception

You may have encountered wine aficionados discussing the significance of a quality wine glass, but have you pondered the reason behind all the commotion? We’ve outlined a fun, straightforward experiment that will demonstrate why Riedel’s varietal-specific glassware plays a pivotal role in influencing your wine tasting perception and experience.

But first, you already know how important it is to always use the right tool for the job. You wouldn't try slicing bread with a hammer. And you certainly wouldn't hammer a nail with a screwdriver, would you? Would you? Well, it's the same with wine glasses. They aren't made one-size-fits-all for the sole purpose of transporting wine from the bottle into your gullet. Every wine varietal boasts distinct characteristics and flavor compositions, and the dimensions and configuration of the glass you employ—whether it’s a Riedel glass or something more rustic—will modify how your senses interpret the wine.



During my tenure at the San Luis Obispo Tribune, I had the privilege of participating in and reporting on a tasting workshop hosted by Edna Valley Vineyard in San Luis Obispo. I must confess, I was doubtful. But during the workshop, I learned that Riedel conducts extensive comparative tastings alongside a panel of wine experts, evaluating the same wine in up to 20 distinct glass designs to determine the optimal shape for each varietal! A similar tasting event is scheduled this Saturday at Brave & Maiden Estate in Santa Ynez.

While the Brave & Maiden Estate gathering reached full capacity in just two days after its announcement, you can easily replicate a simplified version of this activity at home. All that’s required are two glasses with different shapes (and wine, of course!).

The experiment will be most effective if you possess a Riedel varietal glass and can pair it with the corresponding varietal (e.g., a Riedel Merlot glass with a Merlot wine). However, if you don’t have one yet, locate two clean glasses with markedly distinct shapes. Position them side by side and pour a minimum of 3 oz. of wine into either your Riedel varietal glass or your chosen glass as entry #1.

Begin by sticking your nose straight into the glass, and taking a deep breath. The concentration of scents resides within the bowl, so don’t be shy about getting all up in there. Take note of the aromatics you detect and their intensity or subtlety.



Next, take a swig and give it a good swish around in your mouth. Contemplate the wine’s flavor and your enjoyment of it. What flavors are immediately noticeable, and how does it conclude? Is it pleasing or uneventful? How long does the taste linger? Consider the wine’s texture on your palate. Does it fall flat or leave a dry sensation?

Transfer all of the wine to your comparison glass, entry #2, and repeat the aforementioned steps. While smelling and tasting, reflect on how the wine has evolved since your initial encounter with it. Is it an improvement or deterioration? Did you prefer one entry over the other?

This is an entertaining activity and I’ve often had a difficult time believing the wine came from the same bottle. You can try this experiment again using a third glass with a different shape, or even a red solo cup! Invite a few friends to come around and try it—blow their minds too!

Here at the Buzz hive, we firmly believe that you should never settle when it comes to the things you cherish. Therefore, we encourage you to consider investing in the appropriate glass for your preferred Santa Ynez Valley wine varietal. Zum Wohl!

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See our complete list of upcoming music and wine events in the Santa Ynez Valley.