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Why are there different size wine glasses for different colored wines and why are red wine glasses generally bigger? Does this mean they are more important than white wine glasses or should we leave politics out of this equation?

Truth be told, there are as many theories about appropriate glassware as there are different types of glasses. How can you know what is best for YOUR table?

To your horror, the answer may be that if you are not careful, you don't. There are almost as theories about glassware as there are different types of glasses. Some say buy over-sized wine glasses for everything, even cold soups and desserts. Purists, however, contend that each type of beverage requires a specific type of glass.

Legend and folklore have their place in the history of glassware as well. Supposedly, Marie Antoinette had wineglasses molded in the shape of her breasts. Like most legends, however, the truth gets expanded and distorted with every retelling of the tale. No one will ever be able to say for sure, whether they were 32A champagne glasses, 36-D goblets or 40 DD brandy snifters. So much for legends!

When buying glasses for your table, select those with tops that taper slightly inward. This will prevent much sloshing and swirling. Also, if you can, choose clear and plain glasses over colored and faceted. Classic simplicity is always beautiful for all occasions. Avoid long-legged stemware for it is not long for this world. I once had a set of eight and they were gone within two months. They break easily, although I am not sure exactly why.

Don't spend too much money on glassware because it may and often does break. To avoid having a cow if this should happen, don't buy antique glassware unless you plan to keep them in a china cabinet forever. I myself have a very expensive set of Baccarat crystal glasses that have been in my family for years. I use them every Thanksgiving, but always with much trepidation. A good tip is to always store glassware and china so that they are easy to retrieve and put back, (next to Grandma's cut glass punchbowl, for example, is not a good idea.)

Enjoy your glasses, whichever kind you choose. And don't forget to clink them for good luck when in company.

Learn more about this author, M Dee Dubroff.
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