The evolution of wine by the glass

Wine by the glass has revolutionized the way we experience wine, but that wasn’t always the case. It was once an afterthought on bar menus, relegated to back pages and small print. The transformation of wine by the glass reflects broader changes in wine culture and consumers’ preferences.

A Humble Beginning

Before the mid-1970s, wine by the glass was virtually non-existent. Restaurants typically offered a generic red or white “house wine,” a basic option without specific varietal or vintage details. This wine was often just a placeholder, not meant to impress but to serve a purpose.

“Before the 1970s, wine by the glass wasn’t really a concept. If you wanted anything beyond a basic house wine, you had to buy the whole bottle,” says Mel Dick, Senior Vice President at Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, and President of the Wine Division.

The Game-Changer

Then came a turning point. Suppliers and distributors began to rethink the way wine was presented in restaurants. By introducing a variety of wines by the glass, restaurants started offering higher quality options. This shift allowed guests to enjoy a diverse selection without committing to a full bottle.

“I suggested placing bottles of Cabernet, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Fume Blanc, and Champagne in buckets at the bar. It was a huge success and marked the beginning of a new era in wine service,” Dick says.

The Expansion of Wine Culture

The success of this model led to broader adoption and a richer wine culture in dining establishments by allowing consumers to explore various wines and regions. Wine by the glass spurred the introduction of exciting varieties, like Beaujolais Nouveau and Grüner Veltliner, into the restaurant scene.

The rest is history.

Advantages for Restaurants

Wine by the glass has brought many benefits to restaurants and consumers, like:

• Increased Variety: Restaurants can offer a diverse selection of wines, catering to different tastes and preferences.
• Cost-Effective Sampling: Consumers can try new wines without the expense of a full bottle.
• Enhanced Customer Experience: With the option to sample various wines, diners can enjoy a tailored experience and make more informed choices.

Innovative Trends

• Wine Flights: Offering wine flights allows customers to sample multiple wines in a single sitting, enhancing their dining experience.
• Regular Updates: Establishments should refresh their by-the-glass offerings periodically to keep the selection exciting and relevant.

From its humble beginnings to becoming a menu staple, wine by the glass has made fine wine more accessible and enjoyable for all. If you’re looking to dive deeper into the world of wine, our comprehensive selection and expert guidance will help you find the perfect glass to suit your taste.