Nov 13, 2024

A glass for every wine: how to choose the right one?

The world of wine is rich with nuances and details that can influence the tasting experience, and selecting the right glass is one of them. True connoisseurs know that each wine deserves its specific glass to bring out its unique characteristics.

In this article, we will explore the different types of wine glasses to help you enhance your tasting experience through the right choice of glassware.

Wine glasses: how many types are there?

When it comes to wine glasses, the variety is surprising. From the shape of the bowl to the glass material, each detail can influence the taste and aroma of the wine. Let’s take a look at the main categories.

Glasses for red and white wine

Red and white wines require different glasses to fully express their aromas and flavors.

Glasses for red wine

Red wine glasses have a wide bowl that allows the wine to breathe and develop its complex aromas. Examples include the Bordeaux glass, suitable for robust and tannic wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, and the Burgundy glass, ideal for softer, aromatic wines like Pinot Noir.

Bordeaux Glass: This glass has a tall, wide bowl, perfect for full-bodied and structured wines. Its broad surface area allows for good aeration, essential for releasing the complex aromas of more robust red wines.
Burgundy Glass: With an even wider and rounder bowl, this glass is ideal for aromatic and delicate wines. The wide shape helps to concentrate the bouquet and directs the wine to the tip of the tongue, where sweet flavors are best appreciated.

Glasses for white wine

White wine glasses are generally smaller and narrower than those for red wine. This shape helps to maintain the freshness and fragrance of the wine. The Sauvignon Blanc glass, with a narrow bowl and moderate opening, is perfect for fresh, aromatic wines, while the Chardonnay glass has a slightly larger bowl to suit more structured wines.

Sauvignon Blanc Glass: Ideal for fresh and aromatic wines, it has a narrow bowl that helps concentrate the aromas and keep the wine at a cool temperature.
Chardonnay Glass: This glass has a slightly larger bowl, allowing the wine to breathe and develop more complex aromas, making it suitable for more structured white wines, especially those aged in oak barrels.

Glasses for Prosecco and sparkling wines

Sparkling wines, like Prosecco and Champagne, require specific glasses to enhance their bubbles and aromas.

Flute: This tall, narrow glass is perfect for Prosecco and Champagne. Its shape helps retain the bubbles and concentrates the aromas towards the nose. Flutes are ideal for celebratory occasions and toasts, thanks to their ability to preserve the wine’s effervescence.
Coupe: Traditionally used for Champagne, this wide and shallow glass is less effective at preserving bubbles but adds a vintage and elegant touch. The coupe allows for greater aroma dispersion and a smoother tasting experience, perfect for those who appreciate a retro, sophisticated style.

Tasting Glasses

For those who enjoy tasting different types of wine, there are specific glasses designed to maximize the sensory experience and bring out all the wine’s unique properties during tasting.

In this case, we refer to universal or ISO tasting glasses: first identified in the 1970s by the ISO (International Standards Organization), these glasses are designed according to specific parameters to be versatile and suitable for various types of wine, which is why they are often used in competitions and professional tastings. Their balanced shape allows for good aeration and aroma concentration, while the crystal-clear glass surface enables a full view of the wine’s nuances.
They are an excellent choice for those who want a set of multifunctional glasses without the need to buy specific glassware for each type of wine.

How many glasses from a bottle of wine?

After selecting the most suitable glass for each type of wine, a crucial step is swirling the wine in the glass. This encourages oxygenation, releasing the aromas that characterize the wine’s flavors and scents. This is why the glass shouldn’t be filled to the brim but rather with an amount appropriate to the wine’s complexity.

A common question among wine enthusiasts is how many glasses you can get from a single bottle. The answer depends on the type of glass used and the quantity of wine poured.

In general, a standard 750 ml bottle of wine can fill:

5-6 red wine glasses: With a serving of about 125-150 ml per glass, this quantity allows you to enjoy the wine’s aromas and flavors without overpouring.
6-8 white wine glasses: With a serving of about 90-125 ml per glass, white wines, usually served at a lower temperature, are poured in slightly smaller amounts than reds to maintain freshness.
8-10 Prosecco or Champagne flutes: With a serving of about 75-90 ml per glass, flutes are designed for smaller portions, enhancing the bubbles and subtle aromas of sparkling wine.

Choosing the right glass can make a significant difference in your tasting experience. Whether you’re enjoying a robust red, a fresh white, or a sparkling Prosecco, there’s a perfect glass for every occasion. Remember, investing in good glassware is an essential step in fully appreciating your favorite wines.

And now that you know how to choose the right glass, why not put this knowledge to the test with a wine from the Piemonte terroir?

At Boroli, you can enjoy a tasting of fine wines immersed in the Langhe region, savoring all the aromas and flavors that the land offers to those who know how to appreciate it. Discover Boroli’s selection of exceptional wines and elevate your tasting experience. Explore our range and let yourself be guided by the authentic flavors of Piemonte.

VISIT THE
WINERY

The Boroli cellars, located in Castiglione Falletto, are the perfect place to experience the magical territory of the Langhe through tasting experiences and to enjoy an unforgettable experience of discovery and great wine.