Serving, Storage & Etiquette
The same wine can taste dull or delicious depending on the glass and temperature. These small details cost nothing and make a big difference to every bottle you open.
Which glass for what
A complete glassware guide: red and white wine glasses, champagne flutes vs coupes, whisky and brandy glasses, beer glasses, cocktail glasses and a minimalist home collection.
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Temperature, decanting & ice
Ideal serving temperatures for every drink, how to chill and warm wine quickly, when and how to decant wine, and how to use ice properly in spirits and cocktails.
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How to store bottles
How to store wine, beer, spirits, liqueurs and fortified wines before and after opening: ideal temperature, light and humidity, how long each drink lasts once opened, and storage mistakes to avoid.
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Toasts & etiquette
Drinks etiquette made simple: how to give a toast, toasting customs around the world, how to order wine in a restaurant, the wine-tasting ritual, tipping, and how to host and be a considerate guest.
Read guide →The three quickest upgrades
- Temperature: most people serve white wine too cold and red wine too warm. Take whites out of the fridge 15 minutes before pouring; give reds 15 minutes in the fridge.
- Glass: a tulip-shaped glass that narrows at the top concentrates aroma for wine, spirits and even beer.
- Ice: use plenty of fresh, hard ice. More ice melts more slowly and keeps drinks colder with less dilution.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an opened bottle of wine last?
Most still wines last 3–5 days re-corked in the fridge; sparkling wine 1–3 days with a stopper; fortified wines like Port for several weeks. Spirits last for years once opened if tightly sealed.
Should red wine be served at room temperature?
"Room temperature" dates from cooler, unheated homes. Most reds taste best at 14–18 °C (57–64 °F), slightly cooler than a modern living room.