Glass volume or shape influence the aroma attributes of Cabernet Sauvignon dry red wine

Abstract

AbstractThe enjoyment of the wine depends not only on the properties of wine itself, but also on the wine glasses. The present study was designed to investigate whether the glass volume or shape would influence aroma attributes of Cabernet Sauvignon dry red wine. Sensory evaluation was conducted with a 12‐member panel. Three‐alternative forced‐choice (3‐AFC) tests were chosen to determine whether any difference in odors could be perceived among samples in glasses of two shapes (Bordeaux and Burgundy glasses) or in glasses of three volumes (350, 500, and 650 mL). Also, 12 participants evaluated their experience of “intensity,” “elegance,” and “overall aroma quality”, as well as descriptive analysis of the wine aroma. The results showed the wine was perceived as being more intense and more elegant in the glass with a smaller cuppa height and a bigger ratio between the maximum and opening diameter. These findings further support the idea that tasters' perceptions of wine aroma are influenced by the shape and volume of wine glasses, which are in part closely related to the parameters of the glasses.Practical ApplicationsInvestigating the effects of two major red wine glasses, Bordeaux and Burgundy glasses, on the aroma attributes of Cabernet Sauvignon dry red wine is very useful to match the wine with the appropriate glasses. In order to highlight the intensity and elegance of the wine aroma, it is essential to choose a glass with a smaller cuppa height and a bigger ratio between the maximum and opening diameter, which is practical and instructive for wine practitioners, connoisseurs, sommeliers, enthusiasts, and consumers with higher olfactory sensitivity.