There are a variety of drinking glasses in different shapes and sizes for the many types of wine and spirits. Most are made of glass because it is neutral in taste, does not alter the colour of the drink and is hygienic to clean. Thin-walled tasting glasses with specially shaped goblets are usually used in upmarket restaurants or for professional wine tastings.
The reason for the different shapes lies in sensory optimisation. Depending on the shape and volume of the glass, the various aroma and flavour components as well as the appearance (colour and clarity) are perceived with varying intensity. Factors such as goblet shape, diameter, base surface, rim opening and glass thickness influence the release of flavours, the entry of air and the flow rate when drinking.
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For my many years of work as an editor with a wine and culinary focus, I always like to inform myself about special questions at Wine lexicon. Spontaneous reading and following links often leads to exciting discoveries in the wide world of wine.
Dr. Christa Hanten
Fachjournalistin, Lektorin und Verkosterin, Wien