Glasses for Every Drink
The shape of a glass profoundly affects aroma, temperature, and taste. A wide-bowled Bordeaux glass softens tannins; a narrow flute preserves every bubble. Here is our definitive guide to choosing the perfect vessel for every pour.
6
Glass Types
18+
Drink Styles Covered
30+
Pro Tips
Bordeaux / Red Wine Glass
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz
The large bowl allows bold reds to breathe and oxidise, softening tannins and releasing complex aromas before the wine reaches your lips.
Pairs With
Pro Tips
- Fill to widest point of bowl
- Hold by the stem only
- Serve at 16–18°C
Glencairn / Whisky Tumbler
Scotch, Bourbon, Irish Whiskey
The tulip shape concentrates the whisky's nose, funnelling complex aromas upward. A tumbler suits casual sipping with ice or water.
Pairs With
Pro Tips
- Add a drop of water to open the nose
- Glencairn for neat; tumbler for on the rocks
- Serve at room temperature
Champagne Flute
Champagne, Prosecco, Cava
The narrow opening preserves carbonation and directs the stream of bubbles upward, maintaining effervescence and delivering the fine mousse to your palate.
Pairs With
Pro Tips
- Chill glass before pouring
- Pour slowly down the side
- Serve at 6–8°C
Martini / Coupe Glass
Martini, Daiquiri, Cosmopolitan
The wide rim exposes the cocktail's aroma fully, while the stem keeps your hand from warming a chilled drink. Ideal for stirred or shaken cocktails served without ice.
Pairs With
Pro Tips
- Always chill before use
- Garnish on the rim
- Serve immediately — no ice
Copa / Balloon Glass
Gin & Tonic, Aperol Spritz
The oversized bowl holds plenty of ice to keep the drink cold longer, while the wide opening allows botanical aromas to bloom and the garnish to shine.
Pairs With
Pro Tips
- Fill with large ice cubes
- Add garnish before tonic
- Serve at 4–6°C
Pint / Craft Beer Glass
Ales, Lagers, Stouts, IPAs
The straight sides allow a proper head to form, releasing carbonation and aroma. Tulip pint glasses trap hop aromas for IPAs and aromatic ales.
Pairs With
Pro Tips
- Tilt glass at 45° when pouring
- Aim for 1–2 finger head
- Serve at 4–8°C depending on style
Quick Reference
| Glass | Best For | Shape | Serve Temp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bordeaux | Full-bodied reds | Tall, wide bowl | 16–18°C |
| Glencairn / Tumbler | Whisky & Bourbon | Tulip or wide | Room temp |
| Champagne Flute | Sparkling wines | Tall, narrow | 6–8°C |
| Martini / Coupe | Stirred cocktails | Wide, shallow | Chilled |
| Copa / Balloon | Gin & Tonic | Large, round | 4–6°C |
| Pint Glass | Beer & Ales | Straight / tapered | 4–8°C |
"The right glass doesn't just hold a drink — it completes the experience."
— Alphamed Bottles, Est. 1992
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