Soda glasses are generally inexpensive, which makes them perfect for everyday use. They often come in a range of colours.

Crystal is heavy and durable making it the perfect choice for high quality glasses.

Lead crystal has a higher index of refraction than normal glass and therefore it has more of a sparkle. Lead crystal is the clearest and heaviest of all glassware and is the ultimate in luxury dining.

White wine glasses are a narrower and smaller tulip, which allows chilled wines to maintain their temperature for longer. There is also less need to aerate the wine.

Red wine needs a wider, rounder bowl that allows the wine to breathe. This not only allows maximum exposure to the air, but also adds a note of drama to the table. This style of glass directs wine to the tip of the tongue.

One of the most recognisable pieces of glassware is the narrow champagne flute or tulip. This prolongs the “bead” (bubbles) of sparkling wine and preserves its chill.

The ultimate party glass, a short cocktail is best served in a martini glass, whereas a long cocktail with high ratio of mixer to alcohol is served in a hiball.

Designed for drinks with high alcohol content, these are meant to be enjoyed quickly or used as measurements. Perfect for spirits such as tequila and vodka.

Much like a wine glass, a snifter glass is formed especially for aged spirits. When you cup the bulb of the glass, it releases flavours with the warming effect.

Just like wine, there are many different types of beer to suit different glasses. Choose a tall, slender glass for a lager, and a shorter, wider glass for bitter.

A wide bowled container that allows the wine to breathe, with a stopper to prevent spillages.

A carafe is traditionally used as a container for liquids without design requirements that would affect the taste of the drink.

Although many glasses can be put in the dishwasher, we recommend that you wash wine glasses by hand with mild dishwashing soap.

To avoid pressure on fragile rims, always store glasses the right way up.