The question about the amount of wine to be poured is very interesting. The truth is that wine should be poured in the right amount.

Below, with the collaboration of our experienced sommeliers, we explain how much wine to pour into a glass.

How much wine should I pour into a glass?

This question is very frequent. We must tell you that the amount of wine to be poured into the glass, too often underestimated and not considered, is a fundamental aspect for a correct wine service.

This operation can influence two important characteristics of a wine: aromas and temperature.

The amount of wine in a glass influences its aromas and their ability to reach our nose. The principle is simple and intuitive: if the surface of wine in contact with the air is wide, the possibility of evaporation of its aromas is greater. Pouring a right amount of wine allows a proper oxygenation, making the aromas rise to the nose.

The second aspect to consider is that of its temperature. Each wine has an ideal temperature of service and tasting. This temperature, once the wine is in the glass, rises, moving away from the ideal one. The temperature of the wine will continue to rise for as long as it remains in the glass. For this reason, it is better to pour the right amount of wine into the glass, without exaggerating.

What is the ideal amount of wine to pour into a glass?

"Don’t go beyond 2/3 of the glass!", this is the answer of the wine experts. In this way, you will avoid all the problems related to the aromas and the temperature of the wine.

The “2/3 rule” is an ideal indication, to be respected as far as possible. There are, however, some exceptions that we will analyze in the next paragraphs.

How much red wine should be poured into a glass?

Red wine must follow the 2/3 rule, if not aged or very consistent. It should be poured until it touches the widest point of the glass: in this way the wine will not warm up too quickly and its aromas can be perceived.

For important and very fragrant red wines, the amount of wine to be poured is reduced to 1/3, just before the larger part of the glass. The wine will keep a proper temperature and it will have a better chance of releasing its aromas. In general, this exception applies to all wines with a very powerful bouquet of perfumes. Therefore, follow the “1/3 rule” for dessert wines.

How much white/rosé wine should be poured into a glass?

White wines and rosé wines can be considered in the same way. They follow the “2/3 rule” and the wine is poured to the widest point of the glass. In this way, their aromas can easily reach our nose. But be careful, do not exceed the limit of 2/3! These wines should be drunk fresh. Remember that if you pour the wine in high quantities its temperature increases faster.

How much sparkling wine should be poured into a glass?

The sparkling wine is served in the classic flûte glass, always for 2/3 of the glass. You should not exceed this amount because the temperature could be affected and it would be a great shame because these wines should be drunk fresh.