Glassware Glossary

Champagne Coupe – Saucer shaped stem glass that was once used for serving champagne but was pushed to the wayside in favor of the taller and more narrow bowls that retained the drink’s carbonation.

Shear Marks – These are small puckered areas on glassware where the piece was shaped and excess pinched off.  It’s considered a unique “beauty mark” and not to be seen as a flaw.

Goblet – Any stemware that holds more than four ounces.

Toast – A gracious and short speech that’s eloquent, sometimes witty and heartfelt.  It’s offered a special guest of honor(s) such as a bride and groom and is capped off with the raising and sometimes clinking of the glasses.

Racks - Glass racks are usually installed near a home’s bar area and are sometimes secured under a bar with the glasses stored upside down and the bases resting between two bars.

Decanters – Serving vessels that are intended to store wines and liquors.  Quite decorative, many prefer to serve from a decanter versus the wine or liquors original bottle.

Carafe – Similar to a decanter, but without a stopper such as cork.