Class Up Your Next Celebration With the Best Champagne Flutes

Looking for a set of champagne flutes but not exactly sure which ones are right for you? This comprehensive buying guide covers all the information you need to know to about why champagne flutes are so useful to have and how to pick the optimal ones.

Why Do People Drink Champagne in Flute Glasses?

People choose to drink champagne in flute glasses for a couple of reasons. 

In many cases, champagne flutes are designed to keep champagne bubbly and fresh for longer. Since the top of a flute glass is narrow, the gassy bubbles do not have much room to disperse and remain longer than in a regular champagne glass. Unlike flutes, champagne glasses have a wider top comparable to wine glasses.

Champagne flutes also show off sparkling wine better than champagne glasses. The long and slender shape of the flute allows the light to reflect off the wine and creates a beautiful effect. 

For some people, drinking out of a champagne flute is more comfortable, too. The long, thin stem of the flute stops the champagne from warming when it is held. It's also easier to hold and lighter on the hand.

Another reason is that champagne flutes are more elegant and sophisticated than champagne glasses. They are often used in formal settings like galas, weddings, and other special events.

Some people believe that the shape of the champagne flute allows the drinker to appreciate the champagne's aroma fully. It also helps direct the champagne to the tip of the tongue, enhancing the experience as that part is most responsive to sweetness.

Crystal vs. Glass Champagne Flutes

When it comes to champagne flutes, there are two main types of glasses: crystal and glass. So how are the two different from each other?

For starters, crystal is much heavier than glass, so if you pick up a champagne flute made of crystal, you'll notice the weight difference. Crystal is also a lot more fragile than glass, so if you drop a crystal champagne flute, it's more likely to break than a glass one. So if you're worried about breaking your glassware, stick with glass.

Crystal also makes the champagne look sparkly and appealing. This is due to how the flute refracts light. Glass, on the other hand, doesn't have this effect, making it a less fancy choice.

As for the taste of champagne, some people say that it tastes better in a crystal flute because the champagne stays colder. Others say that there's no difference in taste. It's just a matter of preference. So, if you're looking for a champagne flute, it's really up to you whether you want to go for crystal or glass. It all narrows down to what you're seeking in terms of style and functionality.

Stemmed vs. Stemless Champagne Flutes

There are two types of champagne flutes: stemmed and stemless. Stemmed champagne flutes have a long stem that extends down from the base of the bowl, while stemless champagne flutes have no stem. Both types of glasses have a slender bowl that tapers to a small opening at the top.

The main difference between stemmed and stemless champagne flutes is that stemless champagne flutes are more stable and less likely to tip over. This is because the glass bowl is attached directly to the base, giving it more support. Stemmed champagne flutes, on the other hand, are more delicate and can easily be knocked over.

Another difference between stemmed and stemless champagne flutes is that stemless champagne flutes are easier to clean because there is no stem for dirt and grime to build up in. They’re also more often dishwasher-safe since they don’t have a delicate stem that requires extra care.

Things To Look For in Champagne Flutes

When it comes to drinking champagne, it's all about the experience. A major part of that is owning the right glassware. A champagne flute is specifically designed to enhance the taste and aroma of champagne, so it's important to choose one that will do justice to your bubbly. Here's what to look for in a champagne flute:

Shape

Champagne flutes have a narrow, tapered shape that helps preserve champagne's carbonation. This is important because the bubbles are essential to the flavor and aroma of champagne.

Material

Flutes are typically made from crystal or glass. You can pick between the two, but people tend to err away from lead-based crystal flutes since they are believed to be bad for health. The good news is many manufacturers have consciously switched to lead-free crystal, just make sure to check before purchasing.

Size

There are many different sizes to choose from, but champagne flutes should all be tall and skinny. This helps to keep the champagne cold and prevent it from losing its carbonation too quickly. Size also impacts the capacity of the glass. If you’re serving champagne straight, a smaller glass works, but if you’re mixing it, you’ll need a bigger one. 

Cleaning method

Some flutes can only be hand washed while others are dishwasher friendly.  Be sure to get the type of flute that is compatible with your cleaning method. If you live a busy life and can't make time to put effort into hand cleaning your dishware, dishwasher-safe champagne flutes are the way to go.