Champagne glasses are used to hold champagne whilst the drink is being sipped at. There are many different types of champagne glasses, including flutes, coupes, and tulip shaped glasses.http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-champagne-glass.htmMost are made of crystal, but some can be found with either a glass or plastic makeup.http://wineclubweb.com/champagne-glasses.shtml
The coupe was the first type of glass made specifically for the serving of champagne. This is a glass with a wide, bowl-like cup portion, along with a long or medium length stem.http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-champagne-glass.htm The exact history of this glass is mostly unknown, but it may have been invented in England for royalty sometime in the 1600s.http://www.chow.com/stories/10824http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-champagne-glass.htm
Champagne flutes are the most common glass for modern day celebrations.http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-champagne-glass.htm This type of glass has a narrow cup with a long stem. Tulip shaped glasses are similar, but curve inward before flaring up at the opening.http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-champagne-glass.htm
Purpose of the Different Champagne Glasses
Each type of champagne glass has a different purpose. Flutes are designed to preserve the bubbly consistency of champagne. The narrow opening and shape of the glass make it difficult for air to escape, which helps to keep the drink fizzy as people drink it.http://www.champagneflutes.co.uk/
The tulip glass is designed to do a similar thing, except that the more curves in the glass, the more air can escape. Although not as successful with preserving bubbles, some people prefer this type of glass for champagne.http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-champagne-glass.htm
The champagne coupe is designated for a more taste-oriented purpose. Those who drink champagne out of a wide glass like this are more interested in the full body and flavor of the wine and not the bubbles. A wide bowl allows the champagne to open up more and give a more present and full taste.http://insidescoopsf.sfgate.com/michaelbauer/2010/06/24/1476/
Best Champagne Glasses to Use
In this video, an expert talks to a wine shop owner about the differences in champagne glasses. He speaks about the importance of finding a good balance between flavor and bubble preservation, pointing out that the coupe is not an ideal glass for champagne.
References
Fast Facts
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Types
Champagne coupe, champagne flute, tulip glass
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Purpose
Each type fulfills a different desired effect (preservation of bubbles, cool temperature, or full taste of the wine)
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Origin
First champagne glasses in the 1600s
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Material
Crystal, glass, or plastic
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Price range
Depending on the style and material used, glasses can go for as little as $10 or as much as hundreds of dollars
