How Do I Clean Glasses Properly?

Whether you use plain or fancy glasses, it is important to keep them sparkling clean and free of contaminants if you are going to get serious about tasting wine. Just the merest hint of soap in the glass, or a very slight mustiness from the cupboard could make an appreciable difference to your assessment of the wine.  

The trick to washing the glasses is in the rinsing. If the glasses are nor properly rinsed they will dry with a dull lustre that is actually a film of soap or grease. This not only affects the taste but also the appearance of the wine. Many dishwashers do not have a sufficiently thorough rinsing cycle, so it’s better to rinse the wine glasses by hand. After washing, pour warm—not hot—water into the glasses until they overflow slightly over the rim (or immerse them in clean, warm water).

After rinsing, and before drying, leave a little of the water in the glass to keep it warm. A warm glass is easier to dry and polish than a cold one. Dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth. Always give the glass a bit of a polish when you take it out the cupboard, too, in case it has picked up some dust or odours.

When storing glasses, don’t place them upside down on a shelf or they may draw up moisture and become cloudy or pick up a musty ‘shelf’ odour.

Store the glasses upright and place a strip of tissue paper over the top to prevent dust settling in them. This may seem very pretentious and fussy, but it takes very little time and effort.

It’s worth spending a few minutes if it means you will get a little more enjoyment from your wine.


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