- Characterized by a thin, straight edged rim of the glass
- Often associated with higher-end drinking experience
- Allows for a smoother, more refined wine flow into the mouth
- While seemingly delicate, sheer rim glassware can still be durable.
Guide to Wine Glasses
January 3, 2026
How Do You Know Which Is the Right Wine Glass for You?
How Do You Know Which Is the Right Wine Glass for You?
On wine glasses, a sheer rim refers to a thin, straight, edge, while a rolled rim has a thicker rounded edge, with the thinner sheer rim generally considered to enhance the drinking experience.
Sheer Rim:
Rolled Rim:
- Features a thicker more rounded edged rim of the glass
- Often found on thicker, heavier glasses, with the intention of adding strength and durability
- Some find the thicker rim can be distracting or inhibit the flow of wine onto the palate.
How to spot a Quality Wineglass
"One of the first things you notice about a fine dining restaurant is the glassware on the table."
If the server hands you a glass of wine on your way into a party, the quality of glass, will say a lot about the wine inside. The quality of the glass has a significant impact on the way you experience wine.
With that said it is well worth spending some time understanding the key signs of quality, so that you will not miss out on a great experience by using substandard glassware.
