Drinking wine is intrinsically a pleasurable activity. Buying a set of wine glasses, on the other hand, can be a perplexing experience. There are myriad styles to choose from and conflicting advice as to how many types of wine glasses you should own. One all-purpose glass? Different glasses for white and red wines? Several more for specific grape varieties?

The best wine glasses are light, thin, and crystal clear. Other than that, there are no hard rules. We offer some guidance, instead.

No matter the shape, the right wine glass for you should feel comfortable to hold, enjoyable to drink from, and be pleasing to own. Consider the thinness of the rim and the feel of the stem. Visualize it on your table, whether it be for a kitchen supper or a multi-course dinner party. Except for the most delicate, all our stemmed wine glasses are suitable in both settings, so choose what you fancy!

The Diva Burgundy glass is a classic shape.

The Bowl

The bowl or cup-part of the glass is what functionally distinguishes one glass from another, regardless of the volume capacity. Traditionally, hearty red wines are served in a Bordeaux glass (shaped like a tulip), lighter reds are served in a Burgundy glass (with a bulge), and whites are served in a smaller Bordeaux glass. Some manufacturers make variations for specific types of wine if you wish to add them to your collection.

The Size

Wine glasses generally range from 8 to 24 ounces. Smaller glasses do not allow much headroom for swirling. (There is a good reason for doing so: Agitating the liquid, particularly for heavier reds and sturdy whites, aerates the molecules that release volatile compounds, which contribute to the aroma and taste of the wine.)

The growing trend is for larger and more commodious glasses. When choosing a glass, keep in mind its height and width in relation to the shelves in your cabinets, and the racks in your dishwasher. It is disappointing to bring home glasses you love but do not fit.

The Eva Solo Bordeaux glass has a sturdy construction and a unique rim.

The Case for an All-Purpose Glass

Whether you are simplifying your existing inventory or starting from scratch, there is another reason for choosing a single glass for all wines--red, white, rosé and sparkling. Most wine drinkers are unlikely to discern a considerable difference in the wine resulting from the shape of the bowl. So, if you want to simplify your choices, choose a glass that can be used for all. You will be in good company with many wine professionals who recommend this approach.

A Bordeaux-shaped glass, with its gently tapered straight sides, should be large enough to hold a reasonable amount of wine when filled to one-third of its capacity. For extra stability, especially if there are young children around, 13 to 15 ounces is the sweet spot. Larger and taller glasses, on the hand other, may feel more elegant to hold, and many of our brands make the same glass in two sizes.

Alessi Mami glasses feature a curved cup and a medium-length stem. Photo courtesy of Alessi.

The Pure collection from Schott Zwiesel offers a comprehensive array of glasses in a modern design.

Varietal Glasses

If you like to drink single malt Scotch in a single malt glass, adding wine glasses designated for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, or Riesling, for example, to your inventory makes a great deal of sense. These can heighten the varietal characteristics and add to your appreciation.

Remember that a glass on its own is just a decorative vessel. When filled with good wine and imbibed in a pleasant setting, it can accentuate the pleasure of the experience. Santé!

If you would like help selecting glasses, please give us a call. If you are local, visit our stores at 2284 Washington St. in Newton Lower Falls or our location at 77 Leonard St. in Belmont, MA.