Why Are Wine Glasses So Different?

A large Bordeaux glass gives full-bodied, tannic red wines more room to breathe. A wide Burgundy glass helps bring out the aromas of Pinot Noir. White wine glasses are usually smaller to help preserve freshness and maintain the wine's temperature.

Champagne is a little more interesting. A narrow flute helps preserve the bubbles, but a wider, tulip-shaped glass allows the aromas to develop more fully.