In defence of the Flute

The flute has lost favour with wine lovers as well as some experts as a vessel for serving champagne. Most people agree that the flute’s shape is ideal for preserving the bubbles but the aromas get lost if you can’t swirl the champagne like with a fine still wine to release its bouquet. Others disagree.

According to Avery Gilbert, author of the book, “What the Nose Knows: The Science of Scent in Everyday Life”, the bursting bubbles release aroma enriched aerosol. “My take,” he says, “is that for the best aroma perception, you’d want to maximize the bubble flux through an air column with a cross-section similar to that of the nostrils. So I’d go with flute over tulip, and hands-down over coupe.”

My own view is that aesthetics make a difference and the flute is far more elegant for drinking champagne than a white wine glass. The flute’s association with champagne makes it taste better and outweighs other considerations.

      FILL YOUR FLUTE WITH FIZZ – From value sparkling wine to celebratory Champagne, pop the cork with these bubbles

FRATELLI VINEYARDS’ GRAN CUVÉE BRUT: If you like a dry, crisp bubbly, this 100% Chenin Blanc
with its delicate creamy is for you. Rs 1,120.

GROVER ZAMPA VINEYARDS’ AURIGA: A new release, Auriga, pictured, adds a little extra oomph to your celebration with its dusting of gold flakes and fresh nose of citrus and floral aromas. Rs 1,550.

TAITTINGER BRUT: From one of my favourite producers, an easy to love Champagne with fine bubbles and subtle, citrus notes, Rs 6,100

TAITTINGER PRESTIGE ROSÉ: An exceptional rosé, all strawberries and cherries with good mid-palate depth and a long finish, Rs 8,800. 

MOËT IMPÉRIAL: An iconic Champagne with an abiding appeal that tastes as good as it looks.  Pictured here is a limited edition bottle. Rs 7,260.