What do the "legs" on a wine glass indicate?

The "legs" on a wine glass, also known as "tears," refer to the streaks that run down the inside of the glass after the wine has been swirled. These legs can provide insights into the wine's viscosity and alcohol content. When wine has a higher alcohol content, it typically has a greater viscosity, which allows it to cling to the sides of the glass and create noticeable legs. The thickness and duration of these legs can be indicative of how much alcohol is present — more robust legs suggest a higher alcohol level.

Understanding legs can enhance the experience of wine tasting by offering visual cues about the wine’s structure. While they do not directly indicate flavor profiles like sweetness or temperature, they primarily serve as a reflection of the wine’s viscosity and alcohol levels.