Types of Wine Glasses: Everything You Need to Know
Pass the vino.
Choosing the right type of wine glass may be just as hard as picking out a favourite wine. There are different types of wine glasses for reds, whites and even champagnes. Don’t worry, we’ll cover each type of wine glass so you can entertain without stress.
Understanding The Parts of a Wine Glass
Before you can understand the differences between types of wine glasses, you first need to understand the different parts of a wine glass.
Base: The base, also known as the foot, is the circular bottom of the wine glass. The base is what keeps the glass balanced, letting you place it on surfaces.
Stem: The stem of a wine glass is the piece that attaches the bowl and the base and is typically slender in size. When holding your wine glass, it’s best to hold the bottom of the stem close to the base. Holding your wine glass close to the bowl allows your hand to warm up your wine! Holding your glass closer to the base will help keep your wine chilled longer.
Tip: If you find yourself entertaining often, you may want to get wine charms so your guests can distinguish which wine glass is theirs. Most charms attach to the stem of the glass.
Bowl: The bowl is the U shape of the wine glass and it affects how the aromas of the wine are released, making it an important part of the glass. In most glasses, it is the shape and size of the bowl that varies. Red wine glasses have larger bowls which help the wine oxidise. White wine glasses have smaller bowls, as too much air and oxidation can ruin the light characteristics of the wine.
Rim: The size and shape of the rim directs the wine to the right area of your palate. You’ll find that many white wine glasses have narrow rims, which allow the wine to flow to an ideal area of your palate. This helps to highlight different notes in the wine.
Types of Wine Glasses
Red Wine Glasses: Red wine glasses are tall with a large, wide bowl. Red wines tend to be bold in taste, so the large bowl allows the wine to oxidize, letting the flavors smooth out and become more enjoyable. Red wine glasses have wide rims, allowing the wine to flow across your palate. A standard red wine glass is great for medium-bodied wines that aren’t quite as bold. A larger glass with a large bowl helps to smooth the flavor, making it a great option for bolder red wines, like a Cabernet Sauvignon.
White Wine Glasses: White wine glasses have cylindrical, narrow bowls that make a defined U shape. This shape prevents over-oxidation, ensuring that the wine stays crisp and flavorful. The narrow bowl and long stem help keep your wine chilled longer.
You’ll find that there is also a specific white wine glass for every type of white wine. Smaller bowls are perfect for Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Riesling. If you love a wine with more of an oaky note, like Chardonnay, opt for a glass with a larger bowl – it exposes the wine to more air, which helps enhance the unique flavors.
All Purpose Wine Glasses:If you are stuck on which type of wine glass to get, you can opt for an all purpose wine glass. They're a great go-to option because they incorporate aspects from other glass types that provide a pleasant wine drinking experience.
Stemless Wine Glasses: Similar to all-purpose wine glasses, stemless wine glasses are a popular option for wine and even mixed drinks. Your hand can easily warm up the glass, so stemless wine glasses are best suited for red wines. They're a popular option due to their style and versatility, and they can also fit easily in dishwashers and cabinets.
Champagne Glasses & Flutes: Champagne glasses have a tall bowl, tapered rim and long stem, allowing for the carbonation to stay crisp longer. Champagne flutes are tall and slender, making them the perfect glass for adding a berry garnish. Champagne glasses and flutes are not meant to be filled to the brim; when you pour, leave enough space for the aromas and the constant rise of bubbles.
Plastic:If you love to entertain outside, a plastic glass is the perfect option. They are low maintenance, lightweight, and durable.
Stainless Steel:If you are going for a metallic look, stainless steel wine glasses are the right option for you. They are lightweight, durable, and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Keep in mind that most are hand-wash only.
Copper: Copper wine glasses are great for keeping your wine cool while allowing you to drink in style. They can be used both indoor and outdoor and are best cleaned by hand.
Depending on your entertaining style, you may want glasses for special occasions or fancy events. These tend to be more fragile and should be used indoors and handled with care.
Glass: Glass is an easy everyday option that is low maintenance and just durable enough for casual dinnerware. But be careful – glass is still fragile and should only be used indoors. Read the manufacturer's instructions on how to best care for your glassware.
Crystal: If you're looking for something a bit more elegant and high-end, crystal is the perfect option. Crystal is thinner than glass but helps to refract light, giving the glass a sparkling look. Crystal wine glasses are best cleaned by hand.
Tip: If you're running out of space to store your wine glasses, opt for a wine rack. Not just for wine bottles, wine glass racks are available in many different styles from wall shelves to table racks, they will help you utilise more space and provide a designated space for your glasses.
Make sure to keep your wine (anything but red) chilled and ready to serve with a wine fridge. Unsure which model is best for your home? Our guide, The Best Wine Fridges For Chilling Your Favourite Bottles should help.
