The slimmer, U-shaped bowl is used because white wines do not need to be aerated as much as red wines.

It features more of a U-shape and often a more upright design. White wine glassware can be distinguished from red wine glassware primarily by the bowl. This design directs the wine to the front of your mouth which makes it easier to taste and identify more delicate flavors associated with softer red wines. They also often have a larger bowl and are shorter. The optimal glassware for softer red wines is more tapering towards the rim. Lighter or softer red wines include Pinot Noir, Burgundy, and Syrah. Merlot, Cabernet, and Bordeaux are all considered dark, robust red wines. Wine glasses with a less tapered rim are also typically taller which ensures the wine hits the back of your mouth directly to maximize flavor.

A less tapered rim also directs the aromas toward your nose more effectively as you drink. Red wine glasses can be broken down into two sub-categories based upon how tapered the rim of the glass is compared to the bowl.įor robust, dark red wines a less tapered rim is preferred because it allows you to swirl the wine which will release subtle aromas. Considering how large the bowl is, you shouldn’t fill the glass more than 1/3 full. They are often the largest type of wine glass because the larger bowl enhances the bouquet and flavor of red wines. Red wine glasses are easily identified by their bowl shape.

Different types of wine glasses