Wine glasses, like wine itself, can be a complex topic filled with nuance and conflicting professional (and non professional) opinions. The importance of the shape of the glass, determined by the type of wine, varies depending on who you ask. Wine is a subject that can be studied over the course of a lifetime, and the depth of your knowledge depends on how much you want to invest in terms of time and money.
The most important thing to remember, though, is that wine is to be enjoyed, and while you might not taste the difference the way a sommelier would if your Bordeaux is served in a glass better suited for a Pinot Noir, drinking from a quality glass will still enhance your experience. This selection, that covers a range of styles and price points, offers some of the most popular and versatile glasses for everyday use.
1. Spiegelau Hybrid Bordeaux Glass, The Beverage Factory, $22.46 for a set of 2
Thin, laser cut and lead free, Spiegelau crystal glasses are made by in Germany. While the company is owned by Riedel, the Spiegelau glasses are high quality and more affordable than their Riedel counterparts.
2. Cupa Vino, Sempli, $52 for a set of 2
Unique in its design, the shape of Sempli glasses creates a rotational movement when set down that enhances the oxygenation of the wine.
3. Edge Wine Glasses, Crate & Barrel, $9.95 - $12.95 each
Hand blown and durable, these modern, flat bottomed glasses are as attractive as they are affordable.
4. Perfection Large Bourgogne Glass, Holmegaard, $24.99
Located in Denmark, Holmegaard has been making classic glassware since 1825.
5. Weinland Collection, Stölzle, $8.95
Despite the thin hand blown glass designed to best enjoy the wine, these simple, elegant glasses are surprisingly durable.
6. Vinum Bordeaux Glass, Riedel, $179.99 for a set of 6
While Riedels are an investment, the quality of their glasses enhance any wine they come in contact with.
7. Irvig Stemless Wine Glass, IKEA, $3.99
Affordable and well designed, these IKEA stemless glasses are hand blown and are a great option to have on hand for parties or for everyday use.
8. Essence Collection, Iittala, $50 for a set of 2
These classic Finnish glasses are attractive and a pleasure to drink from. They are a stylish addition to the table, and while they are an investment, they are a great choice if you are looking for something special.
(Images: as linked above)
10 No-Fail Decor Tricks & Tips for Small Spaces
Beth's Romantic & Retro Residence
Good Food to Share 
The Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces 
Apartment Therapy Presents 
The Eight-Step Home Cure 
Shaw's Original Fir...
How To Make Perfect Bacon in the Oven
How To Cook Tender, Chewy Wheat Berries on the Stovetop
A friend of mine has those Cupo Vino glasses. We call them the "tipsy" glasses!
The Rosenthal TAC 02 glasses are my favorite. Modern and stately. Gorgeous!
I just purchased the Irvig wine glasses from Ikea. They feel great in your hand and at your mouth. Wonderful value.
Having the right wine glass really does make a difference. The big test is to drink some wine out of a regular inexpensive wine glass and then take a sip out of a high end wine glass such as Riedel. You will notice the difference. I love my Riedel and I wouldn't drink wine out of anything else at home. Yes they are more expensive than other wine glasses, but they do make a difference and they'll last for years if you're careful with them.
We use Reidel standard white and standard red glasses. They're great quality and a classic.
I saw Reidel (some styles) is now available at Target! I used to buy tabletop for a high-end store and this was such a thrilling surprise.