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Below I will answer some important and
frequently asked questions on wines by the glass.
HOW MANY WINES SHOULD YOU OFFER BY THE GLASS?
Two factors determine the number of wines offered: space and demand.
Free space behind the bar is a precious commodity, and refrigerated
space is even rarer, so you must define your priorities. If you offer
only a few wines by the glass (one red and one white), price them reasonably and choose popular and versatile wines. Obviously, if you
plan to offer many wines, a wide range of prices and styles are appropriate. Start with a few selections and gradually increase to
meet demand.
HOW MUCH WINE SHOULD YOU POUR?
The proper pour level for wine is one-third to one-half the glass.
When serving wine by the glass, however, a customer will feel cheated
if the glass is not at least three-quarters full, so price accordingly. Some establishments use different styles and sizes of
wine glasses as well.
HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE TYPES OF WINE TO POUR BY THE GLASS?
The best wine types to serve by the glass are those that are most versatile and popular (see chart below). When offering many wines by
the glass, I suggest adding a sweet dessert wine as well as some good
but less popular wines. People tend to experiment more freely when
they can order wine by the glass than when they have to purchase entire bottles. Once you have decided on a certain wine type
(Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, etc.), contact your local wine supplier and
arrange to taste types of wines from different producers and in different price ranges. When you find one you like, try it for a
week. I suggest offering a small taste to your patrons in return for
their comments and opinions."
MOST POPULAR AND VERSATILE WINES
BY THE GLASS
WHITE WINES
Chardonnay
Pinot Grigio
Sauvignon Blanc
Riesling (dry & off dry)
Spanish Albarino
RED WINES
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Italian Chianti
Pinot Noir
Spanish Rioja |
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