We have listed below the most commonly used bottle shapes and sizes used for wines all over the world. Many wine bottles are named after biblical kings, although the reason for this has yet to be discovered.
What’s in a bottle?
Knowledge of the many different bottle shapes and styles is not generally necessary to enjoy a glass of wine. It is, however, interesting to note the variety that exists across the different wine regions and of course, the similarities. Many of the shapes listed are rarely found in the market, and the very large formats need to be requested and bottled specially by the producer. Interestingly, smaller formats are becoming increasingly popular in the market; half bottles are the perfect size for a glass or two with dinner.
The bottle and the glass
Wine bottles are incredibly important for both the presentation and the protection of the wine. Glass is an inert substance and will impart very little of its own flavour into the wine. This makes it perfect for ensuring that all the flavour development comes from the wine itself. It is also very strong which ensures the wine stays protected, perfect for many years of storage. The dark green colour often used for wines which are meant for cellaring contributes towards keeping harmful light out. Although nothing can substitute the conditions of a cool, dark cellar.
Bottle Sizes
The table opposite shows the most commonly used bottle sizes, their names and whether they are specific to a particular region. As a general rule the larger the bottle size, the slower the ageing process.
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