On Caring For Your Glassware

On Caring For Your Glassware

Even if you haven’t spent a fortune on glassware, properly kept glasses will be a source of enjoyment for years to come. There are a few practical rules to follow for taking care of the foundation of the ars bibendi:

• Wash glasses as soon as possible after each party. Use warm water only, avoid detergents unless there are visual signs of residues (fruit pulp, sugar crystals, lipstick, etc.)

• Wash by hand. Avoid the temptation of using the dishwasher, since washing by hand allows you to feel for cracks both visually and tactilely.

• If two stacked glasses are stuck to each other, soak the bottom one in warm water and fill the top one with cold water. Nudge them gently.

• If you used detergent, rinse the glasses a second time to ensure there are no aromatic residues.

• If the schedule permits it, allow the glasses to air dry, upside down, on a ridged draining surface. If you must put them away quickly (or re-use them during the party), dry them using a lint-free towel. Caution: smell the towel BEFORE drying your glasses, to make sure it won’t impregnate the glasses with undesirable odors. Towels destined for use at your bar should be washed with hot water only and dried without the use of any fabric softeners, to avoid the transference of odors.

• After the party, perform an inventory of your glasses and make plans to replace any that may have been damaged or lost during the celebration.

With this article we conclude the brief series on how to host the perfect cocktail party. I hope you found the advise useful and that you will write me back with additional questions and/or recommendations. Glassware are to cocktails what hosts are to guests: they provide an inviting excuse and a pleasant environment for mingling and enjoyment.

Cheers!