What’s the best way to pour wine without spilling any drops?

Aug 19, 2023

Hello there! I'm Dr. Vinifera, but you can call me Vinny. Ask me your toughest wine questions, from the fine points of etiquette to the science of winemaking. And don't worry, I'm no wine snob—you can also ask me those "dumb questions" you're too embarrased to ask your wine geek friends! I hope you find my answers educational, empowering and even amusing. And don't forget to check out my most asked questions and my full archives for all my Q&A classics.

Dear Dr. Vinny,

Whenever I pour wine from a bottle into a glass, a drop of wine usually runs down the side of the bottle and stains the label and my countertop. Is there a technique for pouring wine that avoids this?—Logan, Birmingham, Ala.

Dear Logan,

Yes! When you’re ready to stop pouring, try twisting the bottle slightly away from you as you also start to tilt it upright. Then pause for just a moment after you stop pouring, with the bottle still over the wineglass. This maneuver encourages that last bit of wine to go back into the bottle, but also lets any lingering drops fall into the glass.

No matter how careful you are, some drips are bound to happen (I find myself shaky with heavier bottles), so it doesn't hurt to have a napkin or towel at the ready. You could also look at drip-related wine accessories. I have a wine bottle coaster I like to bring out when I’m using a tablecloth (or whenever condensation could be an issue, like when serving chilled whites). Some people use bottle rings, which are usually lined with felt or another fabric, that slide over the neck of the bottle and catch drips. There are also wine pourers—nifty funnels or disks you insert inside the neck of the bottle that guide the wine and make it easier to achieve a smooth, dripless pour.

However you choose to pour your wine, good luck, and remember that practice makes perfect! Pouring any liquid from a wine bottle of any shape will help you build confidence. You can even fill an empty bottle with water and practice over the sink (or while watering your plants). You’ll have this skill mastered in no time.

—Dr. Vinny