Have you ever been completely overwhelmed by the many types of wine glasses out there? We’ve created a guide to show you everything you need to know about how to pair your wines with the best wine glasses for your next gathering.
RabbleOn's Guide for How to Choose the Best Wine Glasses for your Wine Pairings
Are you hosting your next dinner party with wine and are not sure which wine glasses to use? Or are you having some friends over to sip on some Rosé? When it comes to glassware for your wine, the possibilities are endless! We've created a guide below for how to choose the best wine glasses for your wine pairings!
WHITE WINE GLASSES
White wine glasses tend to be smaller than the bowls of red wine glasses because their aromas are lighter.
- Chardonnay glasses (typical white wine glass) have a wide bowl and a top that tapers slightly. They are similar to a Bordeaux but are smaller and narrower, which helps to retain the wine’s cooler serving temperature.
- Sauvignon Blanc glasses have a long stem and a narrow bowl that tapers slightly. The tall, slim design of the glass makes it easier to detect the aromas of the wine, while minimizing the amount of oxygen in the glass to keep the wine fresh.
- Riesling glasses are both taller and narrower than Chardonnay glasses. The taller, tapered design of the glass concentrates the fruity aromas in the upper portion of the bowl, and the long stem keeps the wine chilled.
RED WINE GLASSES
Red wine glasses have wider and larger bowls. This allows the wine to breathe more by bringing in more oxygen which brings in complex flavors.
- Bordeaux glasses (typical red wine glass) are tall with a broad bowl, which aids in aerating the wine and enhancing its flavor.
- Cabernet/Merlot glasses have an average-length stem and a large bowl that tapers slightly at the top. These glasses allow oxygen to come into contact with wines to bring out the fruit flavors and to lessen the tannins.
- Pinot Noir glasses have a rim that is turned out, short stem, and a large bowl that is the widest of any wine glass. This glass directs intense wine flavors straight to your nose and tongue.
- Syrah/Shiraz glasses are smaller than most red wine glasses. The rim sharply tapers inward from the bowl, which helps to bring out the fruit aromas first, then the tannins after.
ROSE WINE GLASSES
Rosé glasses come in two kinds: ones with a short bowl and flared lip & others with a short bowl and a short taper. Their long stems ensure that the heat from your hand does not affect the wine. The overall designs bring out the fruity aromas of the wine.
CHAMPAGNE GLASSES
Champagne glasses are also known as “flutes“, thanks to their tall, slender, taper-free design. The glass keeps the bubbles and liquid on the tip of your tongue, giving you the aromas upon your first sip. This glass is best for prosecco, champagne and other sparkling wines.
We feel certain you will now be able to choose the best wine glasses for your wine pairings, especially for your next wine party! Wine enthusiasts are adamant that each variety of wine requires its own shape of stemware. However, for the more casual wine drinkers, typical red and white wine glasses will cover your bases! Cheers to that!
Book one of RabbleOn's talented vendors, including mixologists and bartenders, to ensure your next party goes off without a hitch. We have you covered!
Share with us in the comments below your favorite wine!