The Complete Wine Glassware Guide
Each glass is designed to enhance specific characteristics of the wine it holds—from preserving delicate bubbles to unlocking rich aromas. Use this guide to find the ideal glass for every varietal and occasion.
Sparkling Wines
Light & Crisp Sparkling Wines
Tulip-shaped white wine glass
A favorite among sommeliers, this shape gently tapers to concentrate aromas while preserving effervescence. Perfect for Brut Champagne, Cava, and Prosecco.
Note: Though flutes are still commonly used, they restrict aroma and are best reserved for presentation.
Aromatic or Fruity Sparkling Wines
Wide tulip glass
This broader bowl allows expressive wines like Moscato d’Asti or Extra Dry Champagne to open up, balancing bubbles with lush aromas.
Creamy or Aged Sparkling Wines
White wine glass or wide tulip
Vintage Champagne or sparkling wines with lees aging benefit from extra space to develop complexity. Choose a glass that allows room to swirl and sniff.
Festive, Visual Occasions
Coupe
More about style than function, the coupe is a nod to classic glamour but doesn't preserve aroma or bubbles well. Best for cocktails or celebratory pours.
White & Rosé Wines
Light-Bodied White Wines
Small white wine glass
A narrower bowl keeps the wine cool and concentrates delicate aromas. Ideal for Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Albariño.
Aromatic White or Rosé Wines
Medium white wine glass
Slightly larger with a rounded bowl to release floral and fruity aromas. Best for Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and dry rosé.
Full-Bodied or Oaked White Wines
Large white wine glass
A wider bowl encourages oxidation and reveals texture and richness in wines like oaked Chardonnay or Viognier.
Red Wines
Light-Bodied or Aromatic Red Wines
Small red wine glass
A narrower rim enhances finesse and fruit notes. Great for Pinot Noir, Gamay (Beaujolais), or chilled reds.
Medium-Bodied Red Wines
Medium red wine glass
A rounded bowl balances aeration and aroma concentration. Ideal for Merlot, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, and Grenache.
Full-Bodied, Tannic Red Wines
Large red wine glass
(Bordeaux-style)
A wide bowl allows more oxygen to soften tannins and release deep aromas. Best for Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Malbec, and blends.
One Glass to Rule Them All?
Bonus Tip
If you're only investing in one set, choose a universal or round-shaped wine glass with a tapered opening. It won’t be perfect for every style, but it will serve most wines well while preserving aroma and elegance.
Recommended Glassware
Riedel - Restaurant Degustation Red Glass — A durable, elegantly shaped red wine glass designed to enhance aroma and structure in restaurant and tasting settings.
Riedel - Restaurant Series Chardonnay_Viognier Glass — A versatile white wine glass with a narrow bowl that preserves freshness and highlights fruit-forward varietals.
Riedel Extreme Pinot Noir Glass — A wide, angular bowl designed to amplify the delicate aromas and silky texture of Pinot Noir and other light reds.
Riedel Veritas Chardonnay Glass — Riedel Veritas Chardonnay Glass — A finely tuned glass balancing elegance and function, crafted to showcase the richness and balance of full-bodied white wines like Chardonnay.