Gear: Universal Wine Glasses - Imbibe Magazine Subscribe + Save

Anyone whose appreciation for quality stemware outpaces their cabinet space should give universal wine glasses a try. Unlike bulbous Burgundy glasses or sleek Champagne flutes, these multitaskers have moderately curved bowls that benefit the textures and amplify the aromas of a range of reds, whites, bubbles, and beyond. Depending on your taste, budget, and tendencies toward iconoclasm, there’s a universal glass that will suit most if not all of your sniffing, sipping, and swirling needs.

Zalto Universal

The hand-blown glassware from this iconic Austrian producer is an industry favorite for good reason. The Universal has a velvety smooth rim and delicate stem that makes any wine feel special. With capacity for 18 ounces, you can swirl a five-ounce pour with confidence. And the gently tapered bowl provides enough space to luxuriate in the aromas of everything from light-bodied Pinot Grigio to inky Cab Franc. The lightweight, lead-free crystal is dishwasher-safe, too. $78, aldosohm.com

Josephine Universal No. 2

Designed by Kurt Zalto, Josephinenhütte stemware is handcrafted from lead-free crystal. The eye-catching design of these splurge-worthy glasses includes a distinctively shaped bowl that measures 3 1/2 inches at its widest point, making it easy to sniff, swirl, and sip light-bodied white wines, rich reds, and everything in between. While the glasses are technically dishwasher safe, we recommend hand-washing in warm, soapy water and drying immediately to keep them in pristine condition. $198/set of 2, us.josephinen.com

Schott Zweisel Tritan Crystal Pure Collection Cabernet

For those whoprefer a sturdier stem, this widely available option from an 1872 German glassmaker feels substantial in your hand. Don’t let the word Cabernet in its name fool you: This glass suits red, white, and sparkling wines. The angled bowl is wide enough to stick your nose in, but not so enormous that it verges on goblet-like. The crystal is dishwasher-safe and made using locally sourced Bavarian materials, which the company says helps reduce its energy consumption and carbon and nitrogen emissions. $32/set of 2, bloomingdales.com

Estelle Stemware

While most wine nerds prefer the clearest of crystal, the brightly hued glassware from a South Carolina–based boutique label (named for founder Stephanie Summerson Hall’s grandmother) has a cult following. Estelle’s stemware has pleasing proportions and comes in 20 colors that are all but guaranteed to brighten any tablescape or Tuesday night on the couch. Not recommended for the dishwasher, the glasses are hand-blown and lead-, cadmium-, and BPA-free. $43, estellecoloredglass.com

Waterford Stemless

While many stemless wine glasses feel clumsy or forgettable, these chic numbers command attention. Waterford’s hand-crafted crystal is smooth and lightweight, but not so delicate that you worry about crushing or chipping them. They stand just over 4 inches tall, and the dimpled base makes them easier to swirl than most stemless options. Hand-wash and dry them immediately to maintain their sparkle. $100/set of 2, neimanmarcus.com

Glasvin Universal

From a New York City glassmaker comes this lighter-than-air stemware favored by Michelin-starred restaurateurs. Sold as singles or in sets of two, the Universal is dishwasher-safe and offers considerable value for the price. Its paper-thin lip and elegantly shaped bowl look chic on a table and suit a range of red, white, and sparkling wines. The only catch? The hand-blown glass is too delicate for ice cubes. So find another vessel for your next batch of spritzes or Spanish-style G&Ts. $79/set of 2, glas.vin

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