As any wine enthusiast will tell you, picking the right glassware matters. That’s doubly true of Pinot Noir, which benefits from a glass with a wider bowl that’s narrower at the top. This construction effectively traps the aroma of the red varietal, making it much more enjoyable to drink.
Pinot Noir comes from the French words for “pine” and “black,” which references the grape’s clustered, pine cone-like bunches. The wine was first made in Burgundy, and many posit that the best Pinot Noir is still produced there. The catch? The Pinot Noir grape is notoriously difficult to grow, so the wine has become something of a holy grail item among wine snobs. The movie Sideways, which follows one such wine snob and his journey through wine country, only encouraged many to further pursue excellent Pinot.
One thing is clear: Notoriously complex, the best Pinots taste even more thrilling when served in the right glass. Here are four of the best on Amazon.
1. Riedel Burgundy Grand Cru Wine Glass
When it comes to wine glasses, it doesn’t get much better than Riedel. The Austrian manufacturer has been making perfect matches of glassware and wine for centuries now, and their set of two Pinot Noir glasses is no exception. The handmade crystal glasses are made with large bowls, which allows the bouquet to develop, and a flare that directs the flavors to the front palate. Pinot Noir doesn’t get much better than this.
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2. Schott Zwiesel Burgundy Red Wine Glass
One of the biggest concerns with glassware, obviously, is breakage. Schott Zwiesel’s set of Pinot Noir glasses all but solves that problem, as the six pieces are made with of a sturdy non-lead crystal that’s infused with titanium and zirconium oxide to make it more resistant. As a result, the glasses are also dishwasher safe—so clean up after a wine tasting will be a cinch.
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3. Waterford Crystal Red Wine Goblets
If you know your stemware, Waterford is a name that will need no introduction. For more than 200 years, the company has produced incredible crystal collectibles, such as these red wine goblets. Replete with Waterford’s famous Lismore cuts, the two glasses have a delightful vintage feel and will add a touch of elegance to any home bar. Sporting a slender stem, each glass features an oversized bowl that can accommodate a generous pour while still offering plenty of breathing room. The narrow rim, meanwhile, will help to concentrate your Pinot’s bouquet. Best of all, these glasses are dishwasher-safe and can be cleaned in a snap.
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4. Nachtmann Red Wine Balloon Glass
If you’re on the hunt for wine glasses that will look just as good in the cabinet as they will on the table, then Nachtmann’s set is the one for you. The six crystal glasses look elegant and delicate, but are in fact quite durable, and can survive a run through the dishwasher. Made in collaboration with chefs and sommeliers, every aspect of the glass is carefully considered in an effort to make the best Pinot Noir experience possible.
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