Size matters

I was struck recently as I perused the modest collection of bottles I pretentiously call my ‘home cellar’ (the really good stuff has to be kept out reach, I’m afraid) by the dreadful uniformity of its contents. There was certainly enough variety in terms of style, but everything was held within the globally invariant, ubiquitous, standard 75 cl bottle. Don’t get me wrong I think 75 cl is a wonderful – arguably ideal – size, but variety is the spice of life and I was lacking it!

Why? Was this because we now live in an increasingly choice-less society or a sad reflection of my ‘half a couple with kids’ status? There are lots of reasons for straying from the standard measure and plenty of variations. Firstly and most commonly there is the half bottle (37.5cl) the case for which is indisputable. A full bottle is a hefty dose for a lone imbiber, and they’re also good for drivers (sharing), restaurant-goers (more choice) and impromptu picnickers (less baggage).