Top 10 Best Crystal Wine Glasses
Although most guests tend to focus on the type of wine served at a party, there are still plenty who favor the importance of the vessel in which that same wine is served to them—and a great host will know just how to satisfy both types of guests. Determining the occasion, the wine variety and, importantly, the type of glass can greatly elevate your guests’ experience. Here are some of the benefits (and drawbacks) to using crystal wine glasses:
Did You Know? The type of wine glass you use can really impact the flavor you get when drinking, be sure to read our guides on red wine glasses, and white wine glasses to understand the subtle yet important differences.
PROS
· Crystal is a sophisticated and luxurious alternative to standard wine glasses. They can add an elevated level of flair to any party or social occasion and, if treated correctly, can last for decades.
· Unlike standard glass, crystal is often mouth-blown and hand-finished with precision care. Mouth-blown crystal is generally light and thin and looks much more refined than machine-made glass. When held up to a light source, crystal refracts it, capturing it in a prism that creates a rainbow. This explains why wines and champagnes sparkle and emit a much higher level of vibrancy when poured into a crystal goblet.
· Fine crystal not only gives the look of luxury but also emits a clearer, more melodious sound. Try this: tap your fingernail delicately along the rim of a crystal glass. You will notice the harmonious and pleasant tone it creates. Comparably, a standard glass vessel gives off a dull noise. If you’ve ever seen people make music by rubbing a wet finger around the rim of a wine glass, they’re likely using one made of crystal.
· As crystal glasses tend to be favored by wine connoisseurs, they are often crafted with much greater care. For example, many glassware manufacturers specializing in crystal will design their glasses to complement wines. The stem, at which the glass should always be held (keeping your hand on the bowl can alter the temperature of your wine) is typically long and slender, yet sturdy; the mouth and bowl are often generous and allow for proper aeration which greatly affects a wine’s taste.
· It is easier to produce glasses when using fine crystal. The glasses are spun thin—without sacrificing strength—and typically finished with a high-temperature hardening treatment that bolsters clarity while also protecting the product from scratches and chips. In fact, despite its delicacy, crystal is actually heavier than a similar piece made in glass.
CONS
The history of crystal is fascinating and well worth researching. But there are a few distinctions to watch out for before you shop.
· Crystal glassware made its first appearance at dinner tables centuries ago. During manufacturing in those days, lead oxide was frequently added to the material, giving crystal its marked distinction from the popular glass. Once it was discovered that lead was a carcinogen, glass again became the preferred product and crystal went out of favor. Nowadays, lead-free crystal options are practically standard and readily available.
· Due to the naturally porous nature of crystal, you may find yourself spending a little extra time during clean-up. While standard glass wine goblets can be placed in the dishwasher, the crystal glasses should always be washed by hand—and then immediately dried with a dishtowel to avoid leaving streaks.
· Despite being naturally sturdy, the thinness of crystal can make it more susceptible to breaking under certain conditions. You should never wash crystal glassware in water that is too hot, nor should you leave a crystal glass in the fridge or freezer. Additionally, although you may want to keep your crystal glassware on display, if you have young children and/or pets, it is best to store them in a closed cupboard, out of reach.
Every household should contain a set of lead-free crystal glasses – even if you don’t plan on sharing them with friends. Crystal wine glasses can be practical and precious; they are a statement piece, a status symbol, an elevated family luxury that can last for generations. And, hopefully, now you can determine for yourself whether they are right for you. The outcome looks crystal clear. Of course, if the occasion is not meriting the use of your best crystal ware – you might want to consider plastic wine glasses instead, or if you want to try a fresh look check out these stemless wine glasses.
- Part of the Marquis by Waterford Markham Barware Collection
- Crafted from high quality crystalline, featuring a classic wedge cut
- Lend an air of sophistication to any event with this Wine Set. Ideal for serving both red and white...
- Hand wash with soft cloth
- Gift Boxed
- ALL PURPOSE WINE GLASS - No matter what type of wine is your go-to, these long stem wine glasses are...
- SEAMLESS CONSTRUCTION - Made by highly skilled European craftsmen, these premium wine glasses are...
- DISHWASHER SAFE - This wine glass set is made of lead-free crystal that is incredibly thin, chip...
- DESIGNED TO DECANT - The crystal wine glasses have a broad diameter bowl and gently curved shape...
- PERFECT GIFT - Wine gifts are always a big hit, and a wine glasses set makes a great choice for a...
- THE PERFECT SOLUTION: Whether you’re looking for a unique set of wine glasses to complete your...
- FINEST QUALITY MATERIALS: These wine glasses are proudly made in the Czech Republic from premium...
- EXQUISITE DESIGN: This wine glasses set of 4 was designed having in mind elegance and simplicity....
- HIGHLY VERSATILE: Add these durable wine glasses to your permanent collection, for your home bar, at...
- ERGONOMIC & PRACTICAL: Unlike similar products on the market, this set of 4 wine glasses provides a...
- Set of 6 clear 18.5 ounce wine glasses for everyday use, casual dining, parties, and entertaining....
- Made From Lead Free Premium Crystal Glass: All the wonderful sparkle and flair of fine crystal glass...
- Dishwasher Safe– Say goodbye to endless scrubbing to remove red stains and residue marks. These...
- Perfect Holiday Gift with Classy and Security Package: More Environmentally friendly and High grade,...
- MONEY BACK GUARANTEE – If you are not satisfied with your wine glass set for any reason, please...
- HAND BLOWN : Handmade means with love, heart, and emotion. Each White Wine Glasses is carefully...
- CLEAR CRYSTAL : High quality crystal is a noble material. Wine glasses set of 4 has a sparkling...
- DISHWASHER SAFE-GIFT BOX : The hardness of the crystal makes the modern wine glasses strong enough,...
- WINE TASTING GLASSES : The elegant stem offers a delicate touch, and the wide rim is carefully cut...
- AFTER SALES PROVIDED : Our exquisite wine gifts packaging allows the fancy wine glasses to arrive...
- Handcrafted — Each wine glass is hand-blown by an experienced master craftsman, by whom the edge...
- High-Quality Wine Glass — Our high-quality wine glass is the secret to a 30% enhanced taste and a...
- The Perfect Gift --- Our Wine glass will not disappoint you, whether it is for your own use or as a...
- Premium Large Capacity — This large bowl of long stemmed tulip-shaped personalized wine glass can...
- 100% Leadless Crystal — BACLIFE glass is 100% leadless with endurable and transparent crystal...
- High-Quality Wine Glass --- Our high-quality wine glass is the secret to a 30% enhanced taste and a...
- The Perfect Gift --- Our Wine glass will not disappoint you, whether it is for your own use or as a...
- 100% Leadless Crystal --- BACLIFE glass is 100% leadless with endurable and transparent crystal...
- Handcrafted --- Each wine glass is hand-blown by an experienced master craftsman, by whom the edge...
- Transportation Safety and Satisfaction Guarantee --- The transportation of your gift is secured with...
- Part of the Marquis by Waterford Markham Barware Collection
- Crafted from high quality crystalline, featuring a classic wedge cut
- Lend an air of sophistication to any event with this Goblet Set. Ideal for serving your favorite...
- Hand wash with soft cloth
- Gift Boxed
- Dublin crystal collection stemmed goblet wine glasses to enhance any decor.
- Brilliant and timeless design will impress for years to come.
- Lead free. Set of 4.
- Since 1973 Godinger has specialized in handcrafted silver, pewter, crystal, stainless, and...
- PURE CRYSTAL: LUNA&MANTHA comes from the OJA brand,it's red wine glasses have passed the European...
- 100% HAND BLOWN: Inheriting traditional hand-blown craftsmanship, LUNA&MANTHA red wine glasses are...
- ENHANCE WINE TASTING: Tulip glassware is the best shape for wine glasses. The bowl is not only...
- LONG STEM: The slender 4 3/4in stem allows to easily hold, and the decanent feeling in your hand...
- GIFT BOX: Its modern packaging style is best for your friends and families as birthday or wedding...