The shape and size of a wine glass is very important and while experts believe that a wine shows best in a larger glass, is bigger always better?

When tasting (and drinking) wine, it is better to hold the glass by its base, not the body, which will warm the wine and make the flavours too volatile. It is a well-known fact that the tulip shape of a wine glass concentrates the aromas, making them more detectable.

The type of material used (crystal compared to “cristallin”, which contains less lead) won’t significantly influence the perception of taste. However, the rim’s smoothness does play an important role and it should be slightly less than a millimetre thick. The desired effect is a clear glass container which perfectly showcases a specific wine.

There are many types of glasses used for many different wines, but here are some of the more traditional kinds:

Burgundy glass:
Large and rounded, this glass is very suitable for Pinot Noir – it will enhance the fruity notes, while the narrow opening concentrates the flavours.

Bordeaux glass:
While narrower than its Burgundian counterpart, Bordeaux glasses have a wider opening. This allows for intense oxygenation in order to soften the tannins.

Champagne glass:
Unlike a flute, the Champagne glass is narrower at the top, like any proper wine glass. Connoisseurs will avoid using the traditional “coupe” with too wide an opening, which allows too much air contact, accelerating the oxidation process.

Translated from the original French article written for iDealwine

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