How Full Should a Wine Glass Be?

If you are wondering how much wine to pour in a glass, there are two answers. One is short and simple: as much as you’d like! When you want to enjoy a warm summer night or cozy up on the couch in winter, you’re more concerned with your menu - or which Netflix show you’re going to binge on next.

But it is also fun to know a little wine service etiquette so you can pull out your knowledge and impress guests (or simply pour the appropriate amount so you can enjoy it to its fullest).

Wine Service Etiquette: Depends on the Glass

First things first: let’s talk about the glass itself. In general, red wine glasses are taller and feature a larger bowl.

This is because they tend to be more big and bold; the bowl allows you to fully experience the flavors and aromas.

White wine glasses are typically smaller in order to preserve the aromas and keep the temperature cooler.

The simplest method is to simply fill red wine glasses one-third full so you have room to give it a good swirl and aerate the wine.

Fill white glasses half-full and sparkling wines about three-quarters full.

How Much Wine to Pour in a Glass: Geographically Speaking

If you want a more in-depth guide, dust off your geography knowledge and put it to use! Look for the widest point of the bowl and pretend it’s the equator.

If you go up about a quarter of the bowl, you’ll have the Tropic of Cancer, and if you go down about a quarter, you’ll have the Tropic of Capricorn.

Some wine experts recommend filling your glass to the Tropic of Capricorn. This allows the wine to breathe and you can give it a swirl.

This increases the surface area the wine has with air, and it helps to release the smell (which is a key factor in taste).

Oxygenation softens tannins in reds and enhances the delicate characteristics of whites.

When you are hosting guests or feeling a little fancy, try this simple wine service etiquette trick. And then enjoy!

Want to try our wine, buy a bottle today.