Wine Etiquette: Simple Rules for Tasting and Serving

Ever felt unsure about what to do when a bottle pops open at a dinner party? Wine etiquette isn’t a secret club – it’s just a set of easy habits that keep the experience enjoyable for everyone. Below you’ll find straight‑forward tips you can start using right away, whether you’re a total beginner or someone who already knows the three S’s.

Tasting Basics: Swirl, Smell, Sip

The first thing most people learn is the three S’s – swirl, smell, sip. Give the glass a gentle spin; this releases the aromas. Then bring it up, take a quick sniff and note the scents – fruit, spice, oak, whatever jumps out. Finally, take a small sip and let it roll over your tongue. Don’t gulp, just let the wine sit for a few seconds before swallowing or spitting. This slower pace helps you catch subtle flavors without getting overwhelmed.

When you’re at a tasting event, you’ll notice people spitting out wine. That’s not rude – it’s a practical move. Spitting lets you taste many wines in one sitting without getting tipsy, which keeps your palate fresh. If you’re at a casual gathering, it’s fine to swallow; just be aware of how many glasses you have.

Serving and Social Do’s

Serving wine the right way shows respect for the host and the drink. Start with the red wines at room temperature (around 60‑65°F) and chill whites and rosés a bit cooler (45‑55°F). Use the appropriate glass – a larger bowl for reds, a narrower one for whites – but don’t stress if you only have a universal wine glass; the taste won’t suffer.

When you’re pouring, hold the bottle at the base, not the neck, and fill each glass to the widest part of the bowl. That’s usually about one‑third full – enough room to swirl. If you’re the host, offer the woman at the table the first pour; this old rule is still common in many circles. If you’re a guest, wait for the host to signal it’s time.

Conversation matters too. Ask polite questions like, “What do you think of the finish?” rather than critiquing loudly. If you notice a wine is corked or off, excuse yourself quietly and let the host decide what to do. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the moment, not to turn it into a lecture.

Finally, don’t forget the basics: don’t point your glass at anyone, don’t clink glasses too hard, and never start a toast without saying a few words. A simple “Cheers to good friends” works fine. These tiny gestures make a big difference in how comfortable everyone feels.

Putting these tips together will make you look confident the next time you raise a glass. You don’t need to be a sommelier, just a friendly person who respects the wine and the people around it. So next time you’re invited to a tasting, remember to swirl, smell, sip, serve with care, and keep the conversation light. You’ll be the one everyone thanks for making the night enjoyable.