Wine glasses are one of the most important serving accessory categories in restaurants and wine bars—the correct glass shape expands the wine’s aroma, allows it to breathe and ensures an optimal scent and taste experience, which directly influences customer satisfaction and wine perception. BHS offers wine glasses for HoReCa businesses across Europe.
Types of wine glasses and their use
Wine glasses come in several main shape types, each suited to a specific wine style. Red wine glass—a wider, rounder bowl that allows the wine to breathe and release complex aromas; the larger shape is designed for full-bodied red wines (Bordeaux, Burgundy type). White wine glass—a narrower, tapered bowl that preserves the lightness and freshness of white wine, reducing the rate of oxidation. Universal wine glass—a versatile shape suitable for serving both red and white wines; popular in establishments with a diverse wine list and unified tableware aesthetic. Tasting glass—a smaller shape for tastings and wine assortment presentations; designed for wine events and sommelier services. BHS helps select the most suitable wine glasses based on the wine list and the nature of the event.
Where to use wine glasses
Wine glasses are essential in various types of HoReCa businesses where wine is served. Restaurant with a wine list—red wine and white wine glasses or universal glasses as a standard part of the table setting. Hotel restaurant or bar—wine glasses as a service quality element that enhances a premium perception. Wine bar or specialised wine restaurant—wine glasses in various shapes to demonstrate the depth of the wine list and improve the customer experience. Banquet or corporate dinner—a large quantity of uniform wine glasses for a cohesive table setting aesthetic and consistent service. Wine tasting or enogastronomic events—specialised tasting glasses for controlled portion sizes and aroma evaluation.
Hygiene and maintenance
Proper maintenance of wine glasses is essential for their longevity, crystal clarity and hygienic serving. Dishwasher use—professional HoReCa dishwashers clean wine glasses in accordance with sanitary requirements; ensure that glass racks are suitable for thin stems. Hand washing—premium or delicate glasses are best washed by hand with a gentle, non-abrasive detergent; hot water can damage thin glass. Polishing—wine glasses are polished with steam or a special lint-free cloth to remove fingerprints and ensure crystal transparency for the customer’s view. Storage—glasses are stored upside down or in glass cabinets with soft supports to protect stems and rims from damage.
HoReCa usage scenarios
High-end restaurant with a sommelier—specialised red wine and white wine glasses for each wine style according to the sommelier’s recommendations and the establishment’s concept. Hotel with dinner service—universal wine glasses as a practical and aesthetic solution for serving a large guest space with consistent quality. Wine bar with an extensive wine list—a collection of glasses in various shapes for customer education and the presentation of different wine styles. Corporate event with wine service—a large quantity of uniform, durable wine glasses for banquet format with professional table setting. Catering business—durable and compactly storable wine glasses for transport and serving at events of various sizes.
Frequently asked questions
Is it sufficient for a restaurant to have universal wine glasses, or are separate red wine and white wine glasses necessary? For restaurants with a diverse wine list, it is recommended to purchase separate red wine and white wine glasses, as each shape optimises the expression of the respective wine’s aroma. For smaller businesses or hotels with a limited wine selection, a universal glass is a practical and cost-effective solution. Also see Champagne Glasses for a complete set.
How durable are professional wine glasses in intensive commercial use? Professional HoReCa glasses are designed with reinforced durability against mechanical impacts and thermal changes. Contact the BHS team for information on specific models, and explore the full Glasses range.
Why choose BHS?
BHS – Baltic HoReCa Solutions supplies professional equipment for restaurants, cafés, hotels and canteens: more than 20,000 products from many manufacturers. Our specialists help you choose the right equipment and spare parts for your kitchen or bar.
Delivery
We deliver across the European Union. Delivery time and cost depend on the order volume and destination — contact the BHS team for an exact price and lead time.
