The 12 Best Wine Glasses of 2023
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For reds, whites, and everything in between.
Real Simple / David Hattan
You don't need to be a sommelier to appreciate a glass of wine—whether you're enjoying a crisp white on your patio or pairing a red wine with your favorite pasta, the right wine glass elevates every sip.
“There are wine glasses for every occasion and wine style, but when choosing wine glasses, the main thing to consider is 'how does wine currently play a role in your life?'” says Kelsey Glasser, a sommelier, restaurant owner, and founder of the online wine education platform Raise a Glass.
To find the best wine glasses, we compared dozens of options while considering durability, design, materials, price, and care. In addition to Glasser, we spoke to Rachel Martin, a certified wine expert and CEO at Oceano Wines, for pointers on choosing the right wine glass.
Best Overall Wine Glass: Schott Zwiesel Pure 8-Piece Sauvignon Blanc & Cabernet Glass Set
What Stands Out
This mixed set has red and white wine glasses.
What Could Be Improved
This pick might not be ideal for those who want an all-purpose wine glass.
The Zwiesel Glas Pure Mixed Set includes eight wine glasses, with four 18-ounce red wine glasses and four 13.8-ounce white wine glasses. Purchasing a mixed set is a great idea because no matter your taste, you always have a glass on hand.
These wine glasses are made from Tritan crystal, a blend of titanium oxide and zirconium oxide, which makes the surface strong and durable. They are also scratch-resistant and won’t crack easily, so you don’t need to wait for a special occasion to use them. While the red and white glasses are different heights, each glass has the same classic angular shape and a medium-length stem. The design makes them well-balanced and easy to drink from. This set isn't the cheapest option on our list and may not be ideal for people who want an all-purpose glass.
Price at time of publish: $128 for 8
Material: Tritan crystal| Capacity: 18 ounces (red wine), 13.8 ounces (white wine)| Height: 9.5 inches (red wine), 9 inches (white wine) | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Budget Wine Glass: Libbey Signature Kentfield Wine Glass Party Set
What Stands Out
These wine glasses have extra-thin rims.
What Could Be Improved
The stems are thin and should be handled carefully.
If you want an affordable wine glass set that looks and feels luxurious, opt for the Libby Signature Wine Glass Set. This set has six stemless 24-ounce red wine glasses and six 16-ounce wine glasses. The wine glasses have a generous bowl size, which ensures breathability and enhances flavor for every sip. We also love that the rims are super thin, which helps for smooth drinking.
These wine glasses are safe to put in the dishwasher, which makes cleaning a breeze—but be mindful of the stems, as they are delicate and can break if you don't handle them carefully.
Price at time of publish: $100 for 12
Material: Glass | Capacity: 24 ounces, 16 ounces | Height: 4.3 inches, 5.1 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Splurge Wine Glasses: Zalto Denk'Art Universal Hand-Blown Wine Glass
What Stands Out
It’s made from lead-free crystal, which has a luxe look.
What Could Be Improved
This wine glass is extremely delicate.
The Zalto Universal Hand-Blown Crystal Wine Glass is for wine connoisseurs and blossoming sommeliers. It is made from lead-free, hand-blown crystal, which makes this glass thinner than your typical wine glass.
We love that the delicate rim allows the wine to flow easily without any disturbance from the glass. You can use it for all wines, including desserts, reds, and whites. Plus, it has a tailored size and shape to accentuate the taste of every sip. This wine glass is dishwasher safe, but we advise extreme care when washing it because of how thin and delicate it is. While this set is a splurge, we think it's a worthwhile gift for wine lovers and anyone who wants an elevated drinking experience.
Price at time of publish: $175 for 2
Material: Crystal | Capacity: 18 ounces | Height: 9.3 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Wine Glasses for Reds: Riedel Extreme Pinot Noir Wine Glass Set
What Stands Out
The wine glasses are elegant, with extreme curves on each side of the glass.
What Could Be Improved
The bowl size is large, which is less compact for storage.
The wide bowl on the Riedel Extreme Pinot Noir Wine Glass Set allows oxygen to hit the red wine, providing a better aroma and bolder flavor. Plus, it looks elegant in your hand, with dramatic contours that emphasize the flavors of your favorite pinot noir and other red wines.
This is the wine glass for special occasions—whether it's an anniversary, birthday celebration, or a romantic dinner. Keep in mind that the wine glasses in this set hold 27 ounces and are much bigger than the average glass, which means they may take up more space in your cabinet or bar cart. While this glass can enhance your drinking experience, it’s a pricey option and is expensive to replace, so exercise caution when handling it.
Price at time of publish: $83 for 4
Material: Glass | Capacity: 27.16 ounces | Height: 9.57 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Wine Glasses for Whites: Crate & Barrel Marin White Wine Glass
What Stands Out
It’s affordable, so you can buy more if it breaks.
What Could Be Improved
Some might prefer a higher quality hand-blown glass set.
Chardonnays and rieslings taste best in small, narrow glasses like the Marin White Wine Glass from Crate & Barrel. This shape maintains its aroma and coolness, so each drink feels refreshing and refined. We love how affordable this glass is, so you can replace one (or two) if it slips or breaks.
The 16-ounce glass is 9 inches tall with an elongated pulled stem, which looks elegant whether it’s in your hand or standing on a bar cart. This glass has a sturdy construction that you can clean in the dishwasher or by hand. Because it doesn’t come in a set, you can buy just the glasses you need for your next happy hour or dinner party.
Price at time of publish: $9
Material: Glass | Capacity:16 ounces | Height: 9 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Wine Glasses for Champagne: Riedel Dom Perignon Champagne Glass
What Stands Out
It holds 9.5 ounces of Champagne.
What Could Be Improved
We would like this glass in a set.
Despite the name, you can use the Riedel Dom Perignon Champagne Glass for any Champagne you have in your cabinet. You don’t have to skimp on the liquid with this glass, either: it’s 9.5 inches tall and holds 9.5 ounces, so your bubbly should last you for more than a couple of sips. The glass is made from lead-free crystal, which has a sturdy finish and makes a satisfying clink for Champagne toasts.
Price at time of publish: $28
Material: Lead-free crystal | Capacity: 9.5 ounces | Height: 9.5 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Stemless Wine Glasses: Schott Zwiesel Tritan Forte Universal Tumbler
What Stands Out
This sturdy option is perfect for casual drinks.
What Could Be Improved
It might be hard to keep these glasses smudge-free.
This stemless glass may not be a purist’s favorite, but it's excellent for entertaining or casual sipping. This glass is made from patented Tritan crystal, which is durable and practically unbreakable, according to the brand.
The wine glasses in this set are 5 inches tall—making them slightly shorter than the average wine glass. Despite having no stems, they are elegant and easy to hold. We also like that these wine glasses are just like regular drinking glasses: They are easy to wash and less likely to crack in your sink or dishwasher.
You can use these universal glasses for wine, seltzers, or cocktails. Just remember that holding it with your hand may result in smudges and cause your wine to warm up more quickly.
Price at time of publish: $48 for 6
Material: Tritan Crystal | Capacity: 19.1 ounces | Height: 5 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Colorful Wine Glasses: Estelle Colored Wine Stemware - Set of 6
See at Estellecoloredglass.com
What Stands Out
These glasses have an heirloom look that you can pass down.
What Could Be Improved
This stemware set must be washed by hand.
Colored wine glasses are making a comeback, and the Estelle Colored Wine Stemware has playful hues that are a pleasure to serve and drink from. These handcrafted glasses are heirloom quality that can last for years—you might even pass these down to your kids or grandkids. We also think these glasses make a nice gift for loved ones in your life who enjoy wine.
The set consists of six stemmed glasses in assorted rainbow colors including magenta, rose, cobalt blue, coral peach pink, forest green, and royal blue. Colorful glasses are helpful while hosting because guests will know which wine glass is theirs and not grab the wrong one. When not in use, they make an eye-catching display on a bar cart or wine cabinet. Just note that they have to be washed by hand and are a bit pricey. But, if you’re shopping for a forever set, this could be a great option.
Price at time of publish: $185 for 6
Material: Glass | Capacity: 16.5 ounces | Height: 9.5inches | Dishwasher Safe: No
Best Modern Wine Glasses: Bormioli Rocco Hosteria Stackable Glasses
What Stands Out
These glasses are stackable.
What Could Be Improved
They might not look as elegant as crystal wine glasses.
If you long to have a wine glass collection but don’t have the cabinet space, we recommend the Hosteria Stackable Glasses from Bormioli Rocco. As the name suggests, the glasses can stack to save space in your cabinet or countertop. They come in three sizes: 8 ounces, 9.5 ounces, and 11.75 ounces. You can get all three sizes in an 18-piece mixed set or opt for a single size in a set of six.
These glasses are shorter than traditional wine glasses and have a thick, durable stem. Because they are made of tempered glass, they are sturdy and less likely to break. These wine glasses are ideal for entertaining guests and al fresco dining.
Price at time of publish: $100 for 18
Material: Tempered glass| Capacity: 8 ounces, 9.5 ounces, 11.75 ounces | Height: 4 inches, 5 inches, 5.5 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Crystal Wine Glasses: Gabriel-Glas StandArt Crystal Wine Glasses Set
What Stands Out
You can buy them individually or in a set.
What Could Be Improved
They are tall and take up more space in your cabinet.
If you want a universal wine glass for red and white wine, look no further than the Gabriel-Glas Stand Art Edition Wine Set. Made from Austrian crystal, the set has two elegantly designed wine glasses with no visible seams on the bowl or foot of the glass.
Each wine glass is 9 inches tall, with a long stem perfect for swirling wine. The glasses also have an ultra-thin 66-millimeter rim to enhance the taste and aroma of your wine. This glass is safe for the dishwasher, though we recommend polishing it with a cloth after washing. While you can buy these glasses in a set of two or six, they are also sold individually.
Price at time of publish: $68 for 2
Material: Lead-free Crystal | Capacity: 5.1 ounces | Height: 9inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Unbreakable Wine Glasses: Vivocci Unbreakable Plastic Stemless Wine Glasses
What Stands Out
These wine glasses are made of durable Tritan plastic.
What Could Be Improved
It’s not as attractive as authentic glass.
Made of Tritan plastic, this Vivocci wine glass set is shatterproof and perfect for drinks by the pool or picnics. It comes in a set of two, but you can also buy a set of four, six, or eight. There are two size options: a small 12.5-ounce set or a 20-ounce set.
While plastic, the material is BPA-free and contains no toxic chemicals. You can also wash it in the dishwasher on the top rack. Though we don't like the plastic seam on the side, which spoils the aesthetic, we think this is a durable, stylish option for those prone to breaking glasses.
Price at time of publish: $20 for 2
Material: Tritan plastic| Capacity: 12.5 ounces, 20 ounces | Height 4.75 inches| Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Large Wine Glass: Crate & Barrel Hip Oversized Big Red Wine Glass
What Stands Out
The enormous size is perfect for aerating and swirling wine to release its aromas.
What Could Be Improved
It might be hard to find a cabinet that fits this wine glass.
Bigger is better with red wine glasses, and the Hip Oversized Big Red Wine Glass is about as big as it gets. A large body gives space for aeration, which leads to a better flavor.
This 31-ounce wine glass allows you to swirl and appreciate the full aroma of your favorite red. Though this glass is dishwasher safe, it is delicate, so you should be extra careful how you place it in the dishwasher. Also, since it is taller than the average wine glass, you may have difficulty finding a place to store it. If the oversized look is not to your taste, you can also get the glass in small and medium sizes.
Price at time of publish: $9
Material: Glass | Capacity: 31 ounces | Height: 10 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Final Verdict
Our top pick is the Zwiesel Glas Pure Mixed Cabernet & Sauvignon Blanc Wine Glasses, which are scratch-resistant and durable, making them great for casual drinking and special occasions. If you’re shopping on a budget, we recommend the Libbey Signature Kentfield Wine Glass Party Set because it feels (and looks) far more expensive than it really is.
How to Shop for Wine Glasses Like a Pro
Type
Because the shape of your wine glass can impact your wine’s flavor and aroma, it’s important to pair your wine of choice with the correct shape. Wine glasses can be stemmed or stemless.
Stemmed glasses allow you to hold the glass without heating the wine, which can alter the wine's taste. “These are classic and maintain the wine's temperature, but they're more fragile and challenging to clean and dry,” says Martin.
Stemless glasses are more casual, easier to clean, and easier to store because they don’t have a delicate stem at the bottom. “But they can get smudged with fingerprints and may warm your wine through hand contact.”
Wine glasses also fall into two main types: red wine glasses and white wine glasses.
“Red wine glasses are typically larger with a broad bowl for aeration,” says Martin. “White wine glasses are generally smaller with a narrower bowl to keep the wine cool and concentrate delicate aromas.”
In addition to the red and white wine glasses, there are all-purpose or universal wine glasses that you can use for red and white wines. We also included a flute-like option for Champagne and other sparkling wines. These glasses are tall and skinny to preserve the bubbles.
Material
The most common material for wine glasses is crystal and regular glass. You might also see Tritan crystal options, which contain titanium oxide and zirconium oxide, and have a durable construction that is less likely to break than crystal or glass.
Although regular glass is the most affordable option, it’s hard to beat crystal's elegance and appeal. For special occasions, a crystal glass will always impress. “Crystal is prized for its clarity and delicate ringing sound, though it can be more fragile and expensive,” says Martin.
Plastic wine glasses are great for casual drinks, outdoor picnics, and trips. Martin says that while plastic has the benefit of being unbreakable and lightweight, it’s less elegant and may retain odors and flavors.
Size
The size of your wine glass can also impact the flavor and aroma, so we recommend looking at the product details before buying. We included key specs underneath each standout wine glass. According to Glasser, most wine glasses are 8 to 9 inches tall. However, stemless glasses are shorter, usually around 4 inches.
The body of the wine glass is called the "bowl." The size and capacity of the bowl depend on whether it is a red or white wine glass. Glasser says that white wine glasses typically have smaller bowls with a small opening at the top with an average capacity of 12 to 15 ounces, which keeps the wine cooler for longer.
By keeping the wine cooler, it also heightens the acidity of a wine, which is usually important with crisp white wines, Glasser says. “Also, the smaller opening at the top traps the aromatics so that they reach your nose more powerfully. Cold temperatures also dampen aromatics so the smaller bowl counteracts this.”
Red wine glasses tend to have a bowl with a 15 to 20-ounce capacity, according to Glasser. “But they can get much larger depending on how fancy the glass is," she says. "This allows the wines to interact more with oxygen, thereby letting them breathe or open up. This is especially helpful for complex reds, maybe with some age to them, that have a lot going on, and you want to appreciate the nuance.”
Because red wines don't need to stay cold to be enjoyable, the larger surface area of the bowl is not an issue.
Care
While most glassware is typically dishwasher safe, you might want to hand-wash more expensive or delicate stems to ensure they don’t break. “Of course, if you're splurging and buying Zaltos (which are $75 per stem), then I am hand-washing those with the utmost delicacy,” says Glasser.
After washing, we recommend polishing the glasses with a microfiber cloth to remove water spots and give them a good shine. “When polishing wine glasses, just be mindful that the weakest point of a glass is where the stem meets the bowl because that's where a glass is most likely to break,” Glasser says. “I like to hold the base of the bowl with one hand and polish the rim with the other so as not to put pressure on that seam.”
Questions You Might Ask
Is it worth buying expensive wine glasses?
While drinking from an expensive wine glass can elevate the experience, how much you spend on wine glasses depends on your preference and budget. “Expensive wine glasses are worthwhile if they match the quality of your wine collection, as they can elevate the tasting experience of fine wines and highlight imperfections in lesser wines,” says Martin.
That said, if you can’t afford to spend upwards of $50 on a single glass, there is no shame in buying something cheaper. For those who love to entertain it may be worth it to buy expensive glassware, Glasser says, “but you need to be able to stomach the cost of watching at least a few of them shatter because that will happen at some point—especially when that third bottle of wine gets opened.”
She also recommends having “a cheaper, sturdier set you use for groups and then buy a set of four really nice glasses that you only use for very special occasions.”
How many wine glasses do you need?
Martin recommends having a glass for each wine type you enjoy, but a universal glass is also a practical choice if space is limited. For those who love to host and entertain, having at least six wine glasses is optimal.
Is it okay to mix and match wine glasses?
According to Martin, mixing and matching your wine glasses isn’t an issue as long as the quality is consistent across your glassware.
"It depends on what you're drinking and for what occasion," Glasser adds. "If you have style-specific glassware, I'd try to adhere to that when possible. For example, white wine in white wine glasses and heavy red in Bordeaux glasses. But the wine police aren't going to show up if you drink cabernet out of a white wine glass and bubbles out of a Burgundy.”
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Nor’adila Hepburn, a contributing writer for Real Simple. To compile this list, she researched wine glasses and spoke with experts to see which ones were the best for shoppers. She consulted Rachel Martin, the CEO at Oceano Wines and founder of the wine education platform Raise a Glass, and Kelsey Glasser, a sommelier and owner of Arden Restaurant.
Related: The 6 Best Wine Decanters of 2023, According to Our Tests
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