Traditional bell-shape | Set of 1 | Handwash only However, we did source a few options that are designed to hold up to the dishwasher (if you’re lucky enough to have one in your apartment). And if you find yourself often playing host, there are also sets of four or more below.ĭishwasher-safe versus handwash only: Due to the delicate nature of the crystal and the shape of the glasses, many brands recommend handwashing to prevent shattering and cloudiness. A set of two is great for just you and your partner, whereas wineglasses sold in singles are ideal if you’re the type who likes to sip a glass of wine solo in the bathtub. Set number: Choosing the right number of glasses will depend on your budget and entertaining needs. We’ve noted the difference (and what they mean) below. For example, a slightly more narrow bell shape is better if you tend to reach for white wines, while those with a wider, decanter-esque shape are better for reds. Shape: While universal wineglasses typically are designed with a traditional bell shape, there can be some small differences among them. With that in mind, I asked Leon and nine other sommeliers and beverage directors to share their favorite wineglasses, whether you’re looking for a durable set or a couple of splurge-worthy standouts to add to your glassware collection.īest overall | Best less-expensive | Best sturdy | Best for white wines | Best for red wines | Best for sparkling wines | Best stemless “But ultimately, when you’re talking about cracking open a bottle on a Tuesday night, you don’t need to be precious.” “It’s nice to be able to smell the wine as you’re drinking,” says Chris Leon, owner and wine director of Leon & Son in Brooklyn. But for the average person (even the average wine-loving person), a universal glass - one that is stemmed and of medium size – will do the trick. Stemmed wineglasses also mean you don’t need to grasp the bowl itself and risk warming up your drink.Ĭlassifications can get really nitty-gritty for those who care (we’re talking ultraspecialized designs for specific varietals ). If you’ve ever taken a sip of a funky-tasting wine, waited a bit, and then tried it again to better success, you know what I’m talking about. Sounds like science, which it is, but all you need to know is that oxidation changes a wine’s aroma and taste - in a good, “this is supposed to happen” kind of way. This process actually starts the moment you open up your bottle you’re just helping it along when you pour the wine into a decanter or glass. Technically, proper wineglasses have a bell-shaped bowl that allows wine to oxidize or interact with air. For another, they actually make the wine taste like it’s supposed to. It’s going to look a little bit different, and it’s not going to have the same color profile.” Keep in mind that non-leaded crystal can also be referred to as “crystal,” which is confusing, so we recommend contacting the manufacturer directly if you’re uncertain, or if it’s not clearly labeled on the box.While I tend to be the type to pour myself a glass of wine in whatever clean vessel I have lying around, whether it be a Mason jar, a drinking glass, or even a mug, I must admit that everyone should have a set of proper, stemmed glasses on hand. Jane Cook, chief scientist at CMOG, explains, “Barium crystal is far less toxic, but it’s also harder than leaded crystal. While there are many formulas used to make non-leaded crystal, glass manufacturers commonly use additives such as barium. Wine glass makers can also pull it thinner than soda-lime glass, which results in thin rims and flawless bowls and stems.

It’s more refractive-that is, super-sparkly––than soda-lime glass, and more expensive. Non-leaded (or lead-free) crystal, not to be confused with quartz crystal, is a type of lead-free glass that’s similar in appearance to leaded crystal (which most manufacturers have moved away from using, since lead is a very toxic, highly regulated material).

Wine glasses set