ENTERTAINING
Wine Accessories 101
For tips on making the most of each and every bottle, we asked Sandra Jordan, author of The Art of Decanting, for her vintner secrets to serving wine
DECANTERS
The shape and look of the decanter is up to you but always decant. Pouring wine into a decanter aerates the vintage, releasing its full flavor and aroma. Plus, watching the deep red liquid slowly pour into a crystal vessel creates anticipation for the delicious wine to come.
3 Essential Wine Glass Styles
If you don't have the cupboard space for the dozens of varietal-specific glasses, these three shapes are all you need:
- 1. Barrel. This shape shows off cabernet and burgundy wine best
- 2. Straight-sided. It keeps the aromas and flavors of white wine together
- 3. Tulip. This glass is perfect for sparkling wine
WINE COASTERS
These small circular trays add an easy elegance to the wine but also protect the table and tablecloth from stains.
"Enjoying wine is all about sharing."
WINE FUNNELS
Pouring wine through this decanting accessory speeds up the aeration process and catches any cork or sediment. Plus, it adds to the beauty and ceremony of wine service.
SPECIALIZED WINE GLASSES
The glass shape makes a difference in the way you enjoy a wine's nose and palate; plus, the design affects where the wine hits your tongue (i.e. the salty, sweet, or bitter sections). If the wine and glass are paired well, the best characteristics of a wine will come out.
"A glass shared with friends creates a sense of occasion."
Sandra Jordan