Enjoy Full-Bodied Reds with Bordeaux Wine Glasses

The region of Bordeaux, located in southwest France, is well-known for its large vineyards filled with flavorful grape blends. Bordeaux wine glasses are used to celebrate the types of full-bodied reds, like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, that the region is famous for. Whether you're a fan of reds or are looking for the perfect gift for the wine lover in your life, a set of gorgeous Bordeaux glasses from Williams Sonoma is always a great choice.

What Are Bordeaux Wine Glasses?

Wine enthusiasts know that there is a science behind the shape of wine glasses. Most white wine glassware, for example, feature small bowls with tapered tops to accommodate the relatively light aromas of most white wines. Red wine glassware, by contrast, features larger, wider bowls.

A typical Bordeaux glass is a tall glass with a long stem (though stemless versions are also available). The bowl is wide and features a slightly tapered rim. Because of the way the glass is shaped, wine is directed to the back of the mouth with each sip. This minimizes the bitter taste of a full-bodied red while maximizing the flavor profile. The generous bowl size also allows the aroma to fully develop. However, for best results, always use a wine decanter to aerate red wine before transferring to a Bordeaux glass.

Bordeaux Glasses and Glass Sets

While all Bordeaux stemware shares the same basic shape, key brands like Schott Zwiesel, Riedel and Williams Sonoma put their own unique touches on the glass style. Some glasses, for example, have bowls with a modern angular base while others feature the standard rounded base. Material options include crystal glass, copolyester and lead-free glass. If you will be using your Bordeaux set often, ensure the glasses you choose are scratch- and chip-resistant and dishwasher-safe. If your set will be used mostly for special occasions, this is not as important, but be sure to pick up a special quilted stemware storage case to protect the glasses between uses.

Bordeaux glasses are available as single pieces or in matching sets of two to six pieces. Stemmed wine glasses are classic and traditional while stemless glasses are more modern and casual. For an even more youthful look, consider a set of multicolored stemless Bordeaux glasses from DuraClear. If the glasses will be a gift, adding a monogram is a great way to make the gift feel more personal.

Enjoy the distinct flavors of a full-bodied Bordeaux red with Bordeaux wine glasses from Williams Sonoma. These glasses have been specially designed to maximize the wine bouquet of strong reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Bordeaux blends. With a wide selection of stemmed and stemless options to choose from, these stylish sets make the perfect addition to any wine lover's glassware collection.