The shape and size of wine glasses can seem to be a personal preference, but in reality, they have great importance for wine tasting and can enhance the unique characteristics of each wine. The most important is to favor quality glass, especially for the part in contact with the lips. Let us show you the different shapes, adapted to the major varietals and their characteristics!
THE CHAMPAGNE GLASSES
We all know the famous Champagne flute that brings a festive and warm side. However, it does not honor the Champagne, by concentrating the gas liberated by the bubbles at its top. The Champagne cup is not ideal either. The too-large opening let go of both aromas and bubbles. We advise you to rather use white wine glasses. Ideally, the glasses shall be tight at the foot and open gradually. With this shape, the aromas and bubbles will be able to develop.
THE WHITE WINE GLASSES
White wine glasses are narrower and taller than red wine glasses. This shape allows the delicate aromas of white wines to concentrate in the glass.
They closely resemble the glasses used for red Burgundies, but with a shorter chimney to concentrate the aromas. These glasses can also be adapted to other grape varieties and wine styles, including white wines from the Northern and Southern Rhône.
These glasses are straighter, less domed and higher. This shape balances the high acidity and residual sugar of certain Alsatian white wines. They are also ideal for wines with good tension. (Sauvignon de la Vallée de la Loire, Muscadet du Pays Nantais, Entre-deux-Mers du Bordelais, etc.).
THE RED WINE GLASSES
Red wine glasses are wider and deeper than white wine glasses. This shape allows air to circulate around the wine, releasing aromas and concentrating them in the glass. Red wine glasses come in a variety of shapes to suit the main grape varieties and wine styles.
They can also be used for wines from the Rhône Valley, or other wines with a fine tannic structure.
They are more rounded than their Bordeaux counterparts.
The reason ?
Historically, Pinot Noir is the only grape variety that does not decant. As a result, the glasses are designed to bring the wine into direct contact with the air inside the glass. They can also be used for lighter red wines, with less tannin.
A word of advice…
We recommend that you wash your red wine glasses in cold water, as hot water can fix the tannins still present at the bottom of your glasses.
AND FINALLY, A FEW SPECIAL FEATURES…
Some glassworks are still folkloric, perpetuating regional traditions.
Nous pensons notamment aux verres Alsaciens, avec leurs célèbres pieds verts.
Despite their ancestral and local character, we advise you to use appropriate glasses to fully enjoy the tasting of the famous Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris or Muscat wines !
Looking for wine glasses ?
Discover our selection of Riedel glasses on our website or in store at La Petite Epicerie de la Tour, 13 Quai de la Tournelle.
Are you looking for a particular wine, or do you need some advice? Contact Benoît Cornillault, benoit_cornillault@tourdargent.com, our Personal Wine Shopper, who will be delighted to help you in your search!
