Finding the right wine glass can turn an ordinary wine tasting into an unforgettable experience. The shape, material and design of the glass play an important role in enhancing the taste and aroma of the wine.
In this DanishWine.com guide, we answer the most frequently asked questions about wine glasses and give you practical advice on choosing the perfect glass.
It was in 1958 that Riedel revolutionized the wine world by introducing the first wine glasses specifically designed to highlight the character of wine based on the grape variety.
Wine glasses are designed to highlight the characteristics of wine. The shape of the glass can concentrate aromas, control how the wine hits the tongue, and enhance the taste experience. The material, often crystal (a type of glass with a high refractive index) or glass, also affects how light and color are perceived, which can enhance the overall impression. Silicon dioxide (a chemical substance derived from sand) is the primary ingredient in glassmaking, and the addition of lime (calcium oxide) makes the glass more durable. Historically, lead oxide was used to make glass shiny and tough, but this is rarely used today. Boric oxide (a chemical that increases the thermal resistance of glass) is often used in modern glassmaking for additional strength.
Every wine type has its own needs. In our wine shop you can get Danish white wine, sparkling wine, red wine and dessert wine. All require different types of glasses to get the optimal taste experience.
Here is an overview:
Red wine: Large, wide glasses allow the wine’s complex aromas to unfold. For example, a wide-bottomed Burgundy glass brings out the delicate aromas of Pinot Noir. Cabernet Sauvignon, on the other hand, benefits from a cylindrical glass that allows better development of its characteristics.
White wine: Smaller glasses with a narrow opening retain aromas and ensure an optimal temperature. Riesling thrives in more closed glasses that concentrate its light, fresh aromas.
Sparkling wine: Tall, slender glasses, like the champagne flute (a narrow and tall glass shape), preserve the bubbles and concentrate the fine aromas. The transition from champagne flutes to flutes is due to the fact that the flute better brings out the fragrance and flavor of the bubbles. The previously popular champagne bowl made the experience more diffuse, while the flute design ensures an intense and focused experience of the champagne’s character… However, larger glasses can emphasize the vinous qualities of the champagne.
| Wine type | Recommended glass |
|---|---|
| Red wine | Bordeaux or Burgundy glasses |
| White wine | Classic white wine glasses |
| Sparkling wine | Champagne flût or tulip |
The size and opening of the glass determines how the aromas are concentrated and directed towards the nose. A wide bowl allows for aeration, which is important for powerful wines, while a narrow opening intensifies fragrances and retains delicate aromas. Retronasal aromas (scents perceived via the nasal passage) play an important role in the tasting experience and are enhanced by glass design. Legs (droplets running down the inside of the glass) can indicate alcohol content and wine viscosity.
The stem allows you to hold the glass without heating the wine with your hands. As the wine warms up, its structure changes, which can cause the alcohol to dominate the flavor and mask the more delicate aromas of the wine. This is especially crucial for wines that are served chilled, like white wines and sparkling wines. This maintains the ideal temperature of the wine and ensures a cleaner tasting experience. The length of the stem also contributes to proper grip and better control. A longer stem can further reduce the risk of accidentally touching the bowl of the glass, which is especially important for serving sparkling wines. The stem also prevents wine from getting too hot, which is especially important for serving temperatures that vary depending on the type of wine. For example, sparkling wines should be served between 6-10 degrees, white wines between 8-12 degrees, and red wines between 14-18 degrees.
To maintain the clarity and quality of the wine glass, the following wine glass cleaning is recommended:
Hand wash with warm water and a mild detergent. Dishwashers are not recommended as high temperatures and strong detergents can damage the fine surface of the glass and reduce its clarity over time. Avoid dishwashers that can damage the glass. A gas burner can be used to strengthen the glass after cleaning by removing microscopic irregularities. Glass pest (an irreversible damage that makes the glass dull and less functional) can be avoided with proper care.
The shape of the glass enhances the aroma and flavors. Choose a shape that matches the character of the wine.
Yes, glass optimizes the taste experience for each type. Red wine requires wider glasses, while white wine prefers smaller openings.
Always hold the stem to avoid heating the wine and maintain its optimal temperature.
Danishwine.com is set up in the world to spread knowledge of Danish wine both in Denmark and abroad.
© 2025 DanishWine
