Wine Pouring Etiquette’s Roots

“Way back in feudal times it was a custom, too. In those times, it told a man’s guests that if his flagon of wine was poisoned the contents of his own beaker would prove it.” – Pictured above- The proper positioning and proper number of wine glasses for the dining table, according to a 1940’s Canadian entertaining and etiquette book.

Etiquette of the Bottle

The waiter first pours a little from the newly opened bottle into your host’s glass. Why? Is it to cleanse the bottle of anything which passes off with the pouring of the first glass? No. Way back in feudal times it was a custom, too. In those times it told a man’s guests that if his flagon of wine was poisoned, the contents of his own beaker would prove it. So if a guest didn't see his host doubled up with the cramps, and his face working like a jumping jack, it was safe to conclude that the wine was all right, and the repast might proceed. – The Morning Union News, 1892

Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia