Differences in White & Red Wine Glasses
Professor Claus J. Riedel recognized that different wines exhibited different taste, smell, balance and finish characteristics based on the size and shape of glass used. He worked with a series of wine tasters to determine which glass shapes brought out the best intensity of aromas, which shapes directed wine to specific parts of the tongue and which shapes worked best for drinking white wine vs. red wine. His discoveries enhance wine drinking for many oenophiles. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Bowl size
The bowl size of the wine glass differs depending on white or red wine. The ideal serving quantity for white wine is three ounces. This allows the glass to have a smaller bowl size. The smaller bowl keeps white wine cooler for a longer period of time. White wine glasses require a narrower opening to allow the delicate fragrances to move swiftly to the nose and linger. Because red wines have bigger, more intense flavors than white wines they require a bigger bowl size. The bigger bowl size allows the wine to spread out and release more powerful aromas and flavor. A wider opening on red wine glasses allows the oenophile to dip her nose in the glass and savor the complex aromas.
Bowl shape
"The content determines the shape"-that's the guiding principle at Riedel Glas Austria. White wine glasses typically have a taller bowl shaped like a tulip. The taller bowl and shape enhance the sweet, delicate aromas of the wine. For spirited white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, use a bowl that has a little more room but narrows slightly at the top. For more delicate whites (Rieslings or Pinot Gris) use a narrower bowl and opening. Shorter bowls that resemble goblets work best for the bold flavors and aromas of red wine. Glasses marked "Bordeaux" work well with strong-bodied wines such as Bordeaux and Cabernet Sauvignon. For softer red wines such as Pinot Noir or Merlot get a bowl that slightly narrows at the top.
Tips
The rim of the wine glass plays a very important role in the overall tasting enjoyment. A glass with a rolled rim inhibits the smooth flow of wine from glass to palate. It also magnifies the acidity and harshness of a wine. Wine glasses with cut rims allow the wine to flow smoothly from glass to tongue. Riedel recommends cleaning under warm water without detergent and placing on linen to drain. For extra shine steam the glasses over boiling water.
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