Which wine glass to choose?
Yes you can sip from an all-purpose glass, but you’ll enjoy the experience even more if you choose one that’s just right for the grape.
The shape of a wine or bubbly glass can affect how you experience the aroma and taste of different varietals. Here’s how to shop and make the right choice.
Burgundy-style glass
The rounded bowl and gently tapered rim directs lighter, full-bodied wines, such as Pinot Noir, to the front of the palate to highlight delicate flavours.
Bordeaux-style glass
Designed for Cabernet Sauvignons and Merlots, the glass directs the wine to the back of the mouth to maximise bold flavours. It emphasises the fruit, playing down the bitter qualities of the tannins. The generous size of this glass allows the bouquet to develop fully.
Chardonnay glass
The wide opening of an oaked Chardonnay (Montrachet) glass enhances the spice of a more mature wine.
Sauvignon Blanc glass
The shape shows the combination of fruit and acidity perfectly, giving a harmonious taste experience.
Riesling glass
This shape best supports the characteristic bouquet of fruity red wines such as Zinfandel, as well as floral white wines such as Riesling.
Champagne flute
This glass concentrates the unique, yeasty bouquet of Champagnes, shows off their streams of fine bubbles, and emphasises their creamy mouthfeel.
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TOP TIP: Wine should only take up a third of a glass, which gives you plenty of room to swirl and aerate it. (General rule: don’t fill a wine glass beyond its widest point.)*