Entertaining & Dining

Wine Glass

A wine glass is a stemmed drinking vessel specifically designed to enhance the sensory experience of wine consumption. The shape, size, and proportions of a wine glass are carefully engineered to direct wine to specific areas of the palate, concentrate aromas at the rim, and allow proper aeration. Different wine types benefit from different glass shapes, with broader bowls for red wines that need breathing room and narrower bowls for whites that should stay cooler longer. The anatomy of a wine glass includes four key parts: the base that provides stability, the stem that prevents hand warmth from affecting wine temperature, the bowl that holds the wine and concentrates aromas, and the rim that directs the flow of wine to the palate. Quality wine glasses feature thin rims that create a seamless transition from glass to wine, while thicker rims found on casual glasses create a more noticeable barrier. A well-curated collection of wine glasses demonstrates both knowledge of wine and attention to the details that elevate an entertaining experience.

Key Characteristics

  • Stemmed design prevents heat transfer
  • Bowl shape varies by wine type
  • Thin rim for better drinking experience
  • Clear glass to appreciate wine color
  • Balanced proportions for comfortable holding
  • Available in universal and varietal-specific shapes

Types & Variations

Bordeaux glass for full-bodied reds
Burgundy glass for lighter reds
White wine glass with narrower bowl
Universal all-purpose wine glass
Stemless wine glass

Common Materials

CrystalLead-free crystalBlown glassTempered glassTritan plastic for outdoor useMouth-blown artisan glass

Placement & Usage Tips

Position the primary wine glass directly above the knife at the place setting. If serving multiple wines, arrange additional glasses to the right in order of use, moving from the outside in. The water glass sits to the left, slightly above and to the left of the wine glasses.

💡 Pro Tip

If you can only invest in one type of wine glass, choose a medium-sized universal glass with a slightly tapered rim. This versatile shape works adequately for both reds and whites and simplifies storage and tablescaping. Reserve varietal-specific glasses for when your collection and entertaining ambitions grow.