Tasting a white wine is a sensory experience that deserves special attention. Choosing the right glass plays an essential role in revealing the full aromatic richness of these wines. Discover how to select the ideal glass for your favorite white wine. Dry white wines: opt for a b... Tasting a white wine is a sensory experience that deserves special attention. Choosing the right glass plays an essential role in revealing the full aromatic richness of these wines. Discover how to select the ideal glass for your favorite white wine. Dry white wines: opt for a balloon glass. Dry white wines are characterized by their liveliness and freshness, which dominate the fruit flavors. These refreshing wines with high acidity deserve a glass suited to their aromatic profile. The balloon glass, with its wide bowl and opening, allows the wine to be deposited at the front of the tongue, thus revealing the full complexity of these wines. For optimal tasting, choose a generous volume of approximately 35 cl. This capacity provides the necessary space for the citrus and vegetal aromas to fully develop. The balloon shape also promotes ideal oxygenation, essential for wines with low alcohol content and a light body. Serve these wines between 8 and 10°C to preserve their characteristic freshness. Among the grape varieties that thrive in this type of glass are Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Muscadet. Round white wines: why choose a tall but narrow-rimmed glass? Round white wines, a true balance between freshness, body, and aromatic expression, require a specific stemmed glass. Unlike dry wines, these wines require a glass with a narrower opening, allowing the liquid to reach the middle of the tongue and thus stimulate the acidity. The ideal volume for these glasses is around 28 cl. This more moderate capacity helps maintain the ideal serving temperature between 10 and 13°C, essential for these more complex wines. The elegant and functional stem prevents the heat from the hand from prematurely warming the precious beverage. These medium-acidity white wines are often made from Chardonnay, like the famous Meursault from Burgundy or some Californian wines. Their oxygenation must be controlled to preserve the balance between freshness and aromatic richness, hence the importance of a narrow glass despite its imposing size. Sweet and dessert wines: the straight glass to tame the sugar. Sweet and dessert white wines have a particular character thanks to the residual sugars not converted during the first fermentation. This characteristic sweetness requires a specific glass so as not to accentuate the already present sweet impression. For these nectars, choose a straight-shaped glass with a narrow opening, with a volume not exceeding 25 cl. This particular shape directs the wine towards the back of the mouth, thus avoiding an overly intense perception of sweetness. The ideal serving temperature is between 6 and 8°C for the sweetest wines. These wines are classified according to their sugar content: semi-dry (4 to 12 g/l), sweet (12 to 45 g/l) and dessert wine (more than 45 g/l). Sauternes, Monbazillac or Coteaux du Layon express all their aromatic complexity in these tubular glasses that channel their intense aromas of candied fruit, honey and spices. Differentiating between white wine and red wine glasses: The distinction between white wine and red wine glasses is not just a matter of aesthetics. The white wine glass is generally smaller than its red wine counterpart, with an average capacity of 25 to 35 cl compared to 40 to 60 cl for red wine glasses. This difference in size is explained by several factors: white wines are best enjoyed cooler (between 8 and 13°C) and therefore require a smaller volume so as not to warm up too quickly. Furthermore, their often more delicate aromatic profile requires a concentration of aromas that a narrower glass provides. The shape of the glass also varies: wider for red wines to promote the oxygenation of the tannins, and more slender and tapered for white wines to preserve their delicate aromas. For a perfectly set table, place the white wine glass to the right of the red wine glass, which itself is to the right of the water glass, thus creating an elegant gradation of sizes. Summary table of white wine glasses Wine type Glass shape Ideal volume Serving temperature Suitable grape varieties Dry whites Open bowl 35 cl 8-10°C Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Muscadet Full-bodied whites Tapered stem 28 cl 10-13°C Chardonnay, Meursault, Burgundy wines Sweet/Dessert wines Narrow tulip 25 cl max 6-8°C Sauternes, Monbazillac, Coteaux du Layon The freshness of white wine is essential for a successful tasting. A suitable glass will allow you to maintain this ideal temperature throughout your tasting experience. For those who value practicality, most modern glasses are dishwasher safe, guaranteeing lasting brilliance and transparency despite repeated use. Lead-free crystal glasses offer exceptional resistance to machine washing while preserving their elegance and finesse. To complete your collection, feel and explore our range of stemmed glasses that will enhance your tastings of both white and red wines. What is the ideal volume for a wine glass? Stability and Service Stemmed glasses offer remarkable stability thanks to their widened base, which distributes the weight and reduces the risk of tipping. This feature is particularly valuable during formal meals or wine tastings where glasses may remain on the table for extended periods. The stem also allows you to handle the glass without touching the bowl, thus avoiding fingerprints that could detract from the visual appreciation of the wine. Tasting Comfort The stemmed glass is the traditional choice of oenologists and sommeliers for one major reason: it allows you to hold the glass by the stem, thus preventing the contents from being warmed by the heat of your hands. This feature is essential for white and rosé wines, which are best enjoyed chilled, but also benefits red wines, which require a precise serving temperature. The shape of the bowl, often more elaborate than that of stemless glasses, is specifically designed to concentrate the aromas towards the taster's nose. Table Aesthetics The elegance of stemmed glasses is undeniable. Their slender silhouette adds a touch of refinement to any table setting. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, they allow you to create a cohesive service by combining different models for red, white, and rosé wines. Stemmed glasses also come in various colors that can complement your table decor for special occasions. Designer, original, or crystal glasses: how to choose? Choosing a white wine glass is not limited to its shape or volume. The material, style, and finish play an essential role in enhancing your tasting experience. Discover how to make the right choice among designer, original, or crystal glasses to fully reveal the aromas of your favorite wines. Original wine glasses: when boldness serves the tasting experience Wine glasses with original designs are not just a simple aesthetic whim. Their innovative design can radically transform the tasting experience. Original glasses are distinguished by bold shapes, twisted stems, or asymmetrical bowls that promote specific oxygenation of the wine. To choose a quality original glass, carefully examine the thickness of the glass. A thin glass will allow for better appreciation of the wine's color, while excessive thickness could alter the perception of nuances. Transparency is also crucial: opt for a perfectly clear glass, without a greenish tint that would indicate poor quality. Regarding maintenance, most modern designer glasses are dishwasher safe, but always check the manufacturer's recommendations. Some glasses with complex shapes require hand washing to preserve their unique characteristics. Why crystal glass enhances aromas Crystal glass represents excellence in oenological glassware thanks to its exceptional properties. Its incomparable transparency perfectly showcases the wine's color, revealing its slightest nuances. Lead-free crystal, a major innovation, combines the qualities of traditional crystal with a more environmentally friendly composition. What fundamentally distinguishes crystal from ordinary glass: Its characteristic sound: a clear and prolonged ringing sound when gently tapped. Its exceptional thinness which allows for a more direct sensation of the wine in the mouth. Its superior resistance to micro-scratches, preserving its clarity over time. Its ability to reveal aromas thanks to a perfectly smooth inner surface. For maintenance, contrary to popular belief, crystal glasses like Krysta can be washed in the dishwasher. They retain their brilliance even after 300 washing cycles, unlike traditional crystal which requires hand washing. Selection of Grand Cru Wine Glasses: For exceptional wines, Grand Cru glasses offer specific characteristics that enhance the tasting experience. These glasses are distinguished by their generous volume (between 35cl and 75cl) allowing for optimal oxygenation of complex and tannic wines. The essential criteria for a quality Grand Cru glass: A wide bowl at the base that gradually narrows towards the rim to concentrate the aromas. A thin and slender stem for an elegant grip without warming the wine. A thin rim that preserves the wine's freshness. Impeccable glass or crystal quality, without defects or bubbles. Comparatively, the champagne flute has a narrow, tubular shape that preserves the effervescence, while the Grand Cru glass prioritizes a wider bowl to fully release the complex aromas of fine wines. Where to buy your inexpensive white wine glasses? Why choose La Table d'Arc? La Table d'Arc stands out as a leading reference for purchasing high-quality white wine glasses at affordable prices. As the online store of the Arc group, a glass manufacturer since 1825, this brand combines heritage, expertise, and accessibility. The brand offers a complete range of wine glasses for tasting, suitable for all types of white wines. Whether you're looking for a glass for dry white wines with a wide opening to appreciate citrus aromas, or a more tubular model for sweeter wines, you'll find the ideal product. La Table d'Arc glasses are distinguished by their remarkable brilliance, which enhances the nuances of the wine, while respecting the environment thanks to a lead-free composition. Fast 3-day delivery to a parcel pick-up point and a "no breakage" guarantee are significant additional advantages. Another strong point: all glasses are clearly identified as dishwasher-safe or not, valuable information to facilitate daily maintenance. With competitive prices and professional quality, La Table d'Arc is the ideal choice for wine lovers who want to invest in durable glasses without breaking the bank. Service and tasting tips The way you hold and serve your white wine significantly influences your tasting experience. To preserve all the freshness and delicate aromas, always hold your glass by the stem or base, pinching it between your index finger and thumb. Avoid grasping the bowl with your whole hand, which would prematurely warm the white wine and mask its aromatic qualities. The ideal filling level is one-third of the glass, or approximately 100 to 150 ml depending on the size of the glass. This quantity allows for good oxygenation while maintaining the optimal serving temperature. For dry and crisp white wines, serve them between 8 and 10°C, while rounder and smoother white wines flourish between 10 and 13°C. During a wine tasting, respect the traditional serving order: start with water, then the white wines before moving on to the red wines. This progression allows you to appreciate the flavors of the lighter wines before tackling the more powerful ones. If you are serving several white wines, present the driest ones first and then finish with the sweeter ones. Remember that most of La Table d'Arc's white wine glasses are dishwasher safe, making them easy to clean after your tasting. With these few simple steps, you will transform each tasting into a moment of refined pleasure. FAQ – Everything you need to know about white wine glasses Which glass should I choose for white wine? The ideal choice varies depending on the type of white wine. For dry white wines, opt for a glass with a fairly wide bowl (approximately 35 cl) that directs the wine to the front of the tongue. Round white wines require a narrower opening (28 cl), while sweet and dessert wines are best enjoyed in small, tulip-shaped glasses (25 cl maximum). Wine lovers often look for glasses that reveal all the nuances of color and aroma. What is the ideal capacity of a white wine glass? The ideal capacity of a white wine glass varies between 25 and 35 cl depending on the type of wine. Dry white wines flourish in glasses of approximately 35 cl, round white wines in 28 cl glasses, and sweet or dessert white wines in glasses not exceeding 25 cl. When serving, fill only one-third of the glass to allow the aromas to develop and the colors to fully express themselves. What is the difference between a red wine glass and a white wine glass? A white wine glass is generally smaller and narrower than a red wine glass. The red wine glass, which is larger (40-60 cl), promotes the oxygenation of the tannins, while the white wine glass, narrower at the rim (25-35 cl), preserves the freshness and delicate aromas. This difference in shape optimizes the tasting experience according to the specific characteristics of each wine and reveals all the subtleties of its color. How to hold a white wine glass? Hold your white wine glass by the stem, between your thumb and index finger, allowing your other fingers to rest naturally on the base. This technique prevents the heat from your hand from warming the wine, thus preserving its ideal serving temperature (10-13°C). It also allows you to perfectly observe the wine's colors without leaving fingerprints on the glass, essential for wine lovers who want an optimal tasting experience. Where to buy beautiful white wine glasses? Beautiful white wine glasses can be found in specialized tableware stores, wine shops, or on dedicated online sites like La Table d'Arc. Look for crystal glasses for their finesse and transparency, which enhance the wine's colors. High-end brands offer collections tailored to each grape variety, while supermarkets offer more affordable options for everyday use. How many calories are in a glass of white wine? A standard glass of white wine (150 ml) generally contains between 100 and 130 calories, depending on its alcohol and sugar content. Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are the lowest in calories (approximately 100-120 calories), while sweet or dessert white wines can reach 160 calories per glass due to their higher sugar content. This difference is important for wine lovers who are mindful of their diet.