BrainStuff Season 5 Episode 12 What's The Best Shape For A Champagne Glass?

As we prepare to raise our glasses in celebration, most of us probably haven't given much thought to the shape of our champagne flutes. But what if the shape of the glass could actually enhance the champagne-drinking experience? On this episode of BrainStuff, we explore the science behind different champagne glass shapes and whether there really is a "best" one.

We start by examining the traditional flute, which has a long, narrow stem and a tall, narrow bowl. The idea behind this shape is that it helps preserve the bubbles in the champagne, by minimizing the surface area at the opening of the glass and keeping the champagne in contact with as little air as possible. However, some scholars argue that the tall, narrow shape actually inhibits the aroma of the champagne, preventing the drinker from fully appreciating its bouquet.

Next we turn our attention to the more recent trend of the "coupe" glass, which has a wide, shallow bowl and a shorter stem. This design was popularized in the early 20th century, but fell out of favor due to concerns about the rapid loss of bubbles and aroma. Nonetheless, some experts argue that the coupes' broader surface area allows the drinker to better appreciate the nuances of the champagne's bouquet.

Our investigation then leads us to the "tulip" glass, which combines elements of both the flute and the coupe. This glass has a slightly wider bowl than the flute, but still narrows at the top to help preserve bubbles. However, the top of the bowl is curved inward, which is said to emphasize the aroma of the champagne. This design has gained a following among champagne connoisseurs; however, some critics argue that it can be difficult to drink from due to the inward curve.

We also explore the possibility that the shape of the glass may affect how quickly the drinker becomes intoxicated. One study found that people drinking from a straight-sided glass tended to drink more quickly than those drinking from a curved glass, as the latter slowed down the drinking process. Of course, the effect is likely to be minimal and dependent on a number of factors, such as the size of the glass, the amount of alcohol in the champagne, and the individual drinking habits of the person.

Finally, we consider the role of aesthetics in champagne glass design. The shape of the glass can impact not only taste and aroma, but also the overall presentation of the drink. Many high-end champagne houses have signature glass designs that are instantly recognizable to connoisseurs, and the right glass can help elevate a champagne to a true luxury experience.

So, what is the best shape for a champagne glass? As with most things, it depends on individual preference and the occasion. The flute is a classic choice that will preserve the bubbles and elegance of the champagne; the coupe offers a retro-glamorous feel that may be perfect for a speakeasy-style cocktail party; the tulip is a more recent design that marries the best of both worlds. In the end, the most important thing is to enjoy the champagne itself - whether it's in a fancy glass or a simple tumbler. Cheers!