When it comes to vessels that hold your favourite full-bodied reds, sparkling wines, sweet rosés – and more – finding one that is elegant and practical, while still enhancing the experience of drinking wine is a must.
For some, pouring a glass of red to have with an evening meal is something that comes with very little thought, but for some – self-proclaimed wine connoisseurs, sommeliers, and wine enthusiasts, drinking wine is about the entire experience (wine glass included).
So, if you fall into the latter category (or you’re about to start your journey to becoming a wine connoisseur), you first need to identify what type of wine glass you’ll need based on your preferred tipple.
Does glass type matter for wine?
Drinking wine, overall, is personal. How you like to enjoy it – whether it’s from a stemless wine glass or even a tumbler, is completely up to you. There is no hard and fast rule for what type of drinking glass you’ll need. However, if you’re one to dabble in the traditions of wine drinking, below are some starting points to consider…
What to consider when choosing your wine glass
Bowl and shape of the wine glass
The shape and size of the bowl of a wine glass can impact the wine’s aroma, taste, and overall experience. So, depending on your wine of choice, you may want to consider the following:
Red wine: If you enjoy red wine, then opting for glasses with larger and rounded bowls allows the wine to come into contact with more air – ultimately enhancing its aromas and flavours with each swirl.
White wine: Glasses with smaller bowls are preferred for white wines as they are often served in cooler temperatures. This allows the wine to stay cooler for longer.
Sparkling wine: You can have a bit more fun when it comes to sparkling wine, choose tall, narrow glasses (flutes) or wider, open glasses (coupes) depending on personal preference.
Glass thickness
Thinner glasses tend to enhance the drinking experience as they allow the wine to touch your lips more delicately. Plus, they also showcase the colour of your wines better.
Stem length
A longer stem makes it easier to hold the glass without warming the wine with your hands. So, if you’re serving wine chilled, a stemmed wine glass is ideal.
The best wine glasses in Australia
Ready to sit back and relax, with your favourite tipple in hand? Below, we’ve curated our edit of the best wine glasses to shop in Australia – just add wine!
01
Ruby personalised red wine glass set
$139, Nouvelle Glass
It doesn’t get as luxurious as a monogrammed wine glass. This set from Hardtofind is perfect for your favourite reds.
Key features:
- Made in France
- Single, double or triple letter/number engraving available
- Personalised by hand in Sydney
02
IITTALA Essence white wine glass (set of 2)
$69.95, Myer
Perfect for wine whites, the Essence glasses from Iittala will elevate your drinking experience. With a thin stem to ensure you’re never warming up your wine unintentionally, its considered design makes these vessels a great addition to your glassware collection.
Key features:
- Comes in a set of 2
- Made in Germany
- Dishwasher safe
03
Mon Verre Personalised Margeaux white wine set
$114.99, Myer
Crafted from 100 per cent crystal glass, these personalised Mon Verre wine glasses are a luxurious glassware option we can’t get enough of. Plus, its personalisation option makes it a thoughtful gift idea too.
Key features:
- Monogramming option available
- Crystal glass construction
04
Royal Doulton The Wine Cellar collection (set of 4)
$199, Myer
This set of four sleek crystal wine glasses from Royal Doulton is perfect for both everyday use and special occasions. So, sit back and relax, and let the wine glass do all the talking.
Key features:
- Crystal glass construction
- Gift boxed set of 4
05
Waterford Lismore Arcus wine glasses (set of 2)
$349, Myer
Looking for something a bit different? The Lismore Arcus collection from Waterford showcases crystal-cut patterning that is inspired by the opulent interiors of Lismore Castle.
Key features:
- Crystal glass construction
- Gift boxed set of 4
06
Rosie wine glass set
$99, Hardtofind
A petite and classic piece, the Rosie wine glass feature vintage lines, an elegant diamond design and excellent clarity to showcase your favourite wines.
Key features:
- Personalised design
- Crystal glass construction
07
Villeroy & Boch Rose Garden red wine goblet (set of 4)
$69.97 (usually $99.95), David Jones
The Villeroy & Boch Rose Garden crystal wine glasses bring a brilliant shine and beautiful light refractions to the dinner table – adding a luxurious note to any drink. Perfect for a full-bodied Bordeaux the sophisticated shape and elegant design of this wine goblet will bring out the best in every drop.
Key features:
- Unique ribbed design
- Crystal glass construction
08
Riedel Veloce Rose (set of 2)
$69.97 (usually $99.95), David Jones
Featuring a unique diamond shape, the Veloce wine glass is perfect for big and bold New World wines. Its extreme angles offer more space to enhance the fresh and fruity aromas of your wine, making it the ideal glass for typically tart, dry rosés.
Key features:
- Set of 2
- Diamond shaped glass
09
Villeroy & Boch Manufacture Rock red wine goblet (set of 4)
$99.95, David Jones
Create a unique table setting with these wine glasses from Villeroy & Boch. Featuring a black stem and base, and crafted from high-quality crystal, it makes for an elegant addition to your drinkware collection.
Key features:
- Set of 4
- Crystal glass construction
- Unique stem design