A FEW BASICS TO GET YOU STARTED

Here you'll find some seriously simple guides to make sure your wines stay in tip-top shape – from the moment they arrive on your doorstep, to that wonderful first glassful.

Which glass to use

The shape of a wine glass is surprisingly important, so do choose your glass carefully.

• A clear glass with a smooth surface is best for checking a wine's hue and clarity – avoid coloured, cloudy or cut glass.
• Tulip-shaped glasses are ideal. The wide 'bowl' exposes a large surface of wine to air, which helps to release aromas. The narrow opening better funnels this aroma to your nose.
• Fill your glass a third of the way (yes, just a third). This allows for plenty of room for swirling your wine without spilling, which helps with aeration and releasing more aromas.
• For Champagne, Prosecco and other sparkling wines, tall and thin flutes are the way to go. This way, the wine's fizz will last much longer.