Bubbly Facts: 7 Styles of Glassware

"Here's to champagne, the drink divine
That makes us forget our troubles:
It's made of a dollar's worth of wine
And three dollars worth of bubbles."

Did you know that the champagne glass is made in seven shapes? I've been reading this fascinating book, "The Art of the Table - A complete Guide to Table Setting, Table Manners, and Tableware" by Suzanne Von Drachenfels. Here is what she has to say about champagne glasses. Fun!

I love me some bubbly!

1) The Tulip Glass - Widest in the middle of the bowl with a rim that curves inward, the form directs the taste of champagne to the center of the tongue for best balance of fruit and acid. This glass is often preferred by wine connoisseurs.



2) Flute - Long, Narrow Bowl, accommodates the slow rise of bubbles to the rim which keeps the temperature of the champagne cool which is best tasting for champagne.




3) Trumpet - Similar to the Flute, the trumpet flares outward for faster release of the champagne.



4), 5) and 6) Saucer, Sherbet and Coupe - These three shapes are similar in that they have wide, shallow bowls (supposedly formed after the right breast of Marie Antionette). These look great but aren't particularly the best to drink from because instead of tilting the head back, the head is bent over the the glass.







7) Hollow-Stem - Features a bowl that extends to the base. The long bowl is held between the fingers, which generate warmth. This is not a favorite among wine buffs because it warms the champagne but they are certainly stunning looking glasses.