Gracefully holding a glass of champagne is not given to everyone, but everything can be learned. How to drink alcohol at presentations and at a party, says Tatyana Polyakova, a consultant on business, secular and international communication.
How many glasses to drink decently at an event?
The question is not about the number of glasses, but about properly served wine of elegant quality. If the wine is served not impersonally, but from a bottle by a waiter standing in front of you or approached, then it is calculated for each guest. Standards vary from country to country. And as often happens in the world of art, it is not the quantity that matters, but the quality.
Is it appropriate to come to a presentation and refuse to drink?
To drink or not to drink is a personal decision. Refusing food is impolite. But the treat is at a party. This is a personal contact. In the case of a presentation and assuming that wine is not a bait, but a sincere treat, it is also impossible to refuse. But the pre-served trays of glasses and the unnamed drink are faux-pas. Before accepting a treat, it is always polite and useful for the body to clarify what kind of drink is poured into glasses. And do not refuse a poured glass with you. At the same time, be sure to praise the choice or read the label aloud. There is only one advice: watch the intonation. The name of the drink can also sound like a reproach. It may also turn out to be by no means champagne, but sparkling wine. Remember: in a very chilled form, you can drink and swallow almost any bubbles. The higher the temperature, the clearer the outlines and details of the wine.
How to gracefully stop drinking?
Take a glass, enjoy a bouquet of wine, sip and praise the wine – this is a mandatory program. Don’t give up. Just don’t sing. And you will not be poured!
How to hold a glass correctly and not leave fingerprints and lipstick marks?
The ability to hold a glass is safety, class and style. How often it is the gesture of the absurdly grasped glass that betrays the lack of class. And especially in photography. Even with an impeccable bow, posture and smug facial expression.
How to keep? It all depends on the shape of the glass. Cup, cup, pompadour – in girth, behind the bottom of the glass, that is, the bowl itself, passing the stem of the glass between the fingers. Narrow flute, wine glass – by the leg and always lower to the glass stand. A verre glass for millesimes – exquisite and expensive varieties – is always at the bottom of the leg, passing the edges of the glass stand between the fingers for stability. And in order to emphasize ownership of the topic. And of course, to demonstrate rings and bracelets.
Can you ask for a straw with all cocktails?
A whole dramaturgy with cocktail tubes. Even if they are offered, after stirring the drink with them, I take them out of the glass. A straw is the best way to spice up the bubbles. And good wine holds the bubbles by itself. As with a spoon in a cup of tea: never leave these tubes inside the vessel. It is generally accepted that a lady drinking a cocktail through a straw looks elegant. But you need to decide what is easier to change: lipstick for a more resistant one or a type of wine? Or take lessons in the art of handling a straw, which is definitely not made for champagne. Unless you stir syrup-aged fresh wild strawberries into your La Principesse cocktail at your favorite hotel bar on the island of Capri!
Is there such a rule that one should leave a little wine in a glass and not finish it?
It is pleasant to consider that 10% of the drink left at the bottom of the glass emphasizes class and self-control.
Is it possible to clink glasses?
There is no one rule. There are situations of culture and tradition. It’s like shaking hands. Raise your glass in response and why not hear the sound of crystal?! If this is a gesture in response, then this cannot but be appreciated. At the same time, the most important thing is not the color of champagne and not the type of crystal glass, but the ability to look into your eyes and smile with your eyes. Default.
What kind of alcohol is appropriate to bring with you to visit and is it generally good to give alcohol?
And again: how many countries, so many cultures and traditions. Alcohol in a Muslim home – never. The French – Italian wine: if not a scandal, then a grimace. If you bring wine, a bottle of champagne will always be appreciated. Especially the Magnum. Tip: Choose a non-commercial brand and say a few words about why this particular wine. And then all you have to do is… answer the questions!