Etiquette Tips on Raising the Proper Glass
It’s that time of year! Hosting gatherings for Fall through the December holiday season is here at last. If you are planning a party but are worried you don’t have glassware or aren’t sure how to use it, here’s a simple cheat sheet on hosting with confidence and raising a glass to the upcoming season. It’s Fall Ya’ll!
You Need Less Than You Think
To feel confidently prepared for a cocktail or dinner party, here is your checklist:
- Water Glass – Usually the larger glass, can be a goblet or stemmed glass. Keep a pitcher handy on the side table.
- Wine Glass – This glass is the ultimate taskmaster, acting as a versatile multitasker. A good all-purpose wine glass can stand in for red wine, water, sparkling water, or a mocktail. Etiquette tip: If the glass has a stem, use it. Even red wine, served warmer than white, is better without fingerprints.
- Coupe – A shallow-bowled, stemmed glass, associated with serving glam cocktails and elegant drinks. Pretty for cocktail parties and pre-dinner drinks. Etiquette tip: More glamorous but less bubbles.
- Flute – A tall, narrow glass used for champagne and sparkling wines. The narrow shape helps retain the bubbles and carbonation. (The coupe does not!) Hold the glass by the stem so your hand does not warm the glass. Etiquette tip: Choose a flute over a Coupe to preserve the fizzy bubbles.
Fill the Glass Thoughtfully
Water:
Knowing how full the glass should be filled is an art form. For a water glass, 3/4 full is appropriate for the dinner table.
Wine:
A wine glass is filled one third of the bowl. Never to the top.
Coupe:
A coupe should have approximately ½ inch of space below the rim so it doesn’t overflow. Leave space for a lovely cherry or decorative orange twist.
Flute:
Always pour the liquid in slowly, leaving enough space at the top so the bubbles don’t overflow.
Glassware Etiquette Q and A
Q: Where is the water glass placed on the table?
A: To the right of the place setting.
Q: Where is the wine glass placed?
A: Arranged to the right of the water glass.
Q: What should never be on a glass?
A: A lipstick ring from lipstick.
Q: Is it the host’s job to keep glasses refilled?
A: The host can designate a person to help, or leave the water pitcher or bottle of wine on the table for refills.
Q: What is the difference between a cocktail napkin and dinner napkin?
A: Cocktail napkins are used specifically for drinks, and dinner napkins belong at the table.
Q: Can you take your cocktail to the dinner table?
A: Look for a sign. If you are not finished and the host directs you in for dinner, you can bring the drink in, unless there is a serving tray waiting at the dining room entrance. Place your drink on the table.
Q: Should a guest propose a toast to the host?
A: Yes, always.
Q: To clink or not to clink?
A: No! (But never refuse a clink.)
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For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go To” social and professional etiquette authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas.
See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook and find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and HuffPost.
