You might enjoy your drink, but there are certain rules when it comes to drinking wine

Wine should not be taking like a glass of water. (Photo:Courtesy)

By ROZIE JUMA

Many of us assume that drinking wine is just like gulping down a glass of water. So they will simply uncork the bottle, pour the wine into any glass (an article for another day), and then sit in their favorite chair to enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

You might enjoy your drink, but there are certain rules when it comes to drinking wine, especially if you are in the presence of other people.

•Glass: Always hold your glass of white wine by the stem, using your thumb and index finger. This way, the temperature of your hands will not warm your chilled wine. Does this mean you can hold the red wine any way you please? No, it should also be held by the stem, so you can see its color and clarity.

•Tasting: Once you uncork the wine, it is prudent to let it breathe for about an hour before pouring it into a glass. Swirl the wine to gauge its color and consistency, and then take a deep sniff; this allows your taste buds to pick up subtle hints of flavor in the wine better. Take a sip; do not gulp. Swirl it in your mouth for a few seconds before you swallow it, to focus on its texture and weight. You will be able to determine whether it is smooth and rich, or light and smooth. Before taking the next sip, take some time to savor the aftertaste. Your mouth and mind are now ready for the wine, and you can indulge.

•Which wine? Some people prefer white wine while others prefer red; the choice is yours. However, tradition dictates that white wine is served chilled and with white meat. Red wine, on the other hand, is served at room temperature, and with heavier meals, like red meat. But this rule is not cast in stone; enjoy your wine with whatever meal you love. Remember, a red wine glass should be no more than one-third full, while a white wine glass should only be filled halfway.