Port wines: How to choose between a balloon glass and INAO glass?

Whether in the world of spirits or champagne, it's well known that the choice of glass type (stem, balloon, etc.) and capacity can influence your appreciation of the balanced flavors of your wines. The same is true in the world of port glassware . But does that mean you absolutely have to buy a set of Baccarat or Riedel glasses for your service, just like sommeliers? That's what we'll explore in this blog post.

How does the tulip glass work and why is it most commonly used for port?

✓ Advantages of tulip glass

• Maximum enhancement of primary (fruits, flowers) and secondary (spices, light wood) aromas
• Ideal format for professional olfactory analysis and learning about tasting
• Versatility for 70% of port styles according to sommeliers

✗ Limitations of the tulip glass

• Less suitable for very old tawny (20+ years) and colheita varieties which require more oxygenation
• Can excessively concentrate the alcohol if the glass is too small (<14 cl) or too full

Price range: You can find tulip glasses in our online shop. Available for €10. Available individually or in sets.

What are the specific advantages of balloon glasses for aged ports?

The balloon glass, also known as a cognac glass, has a large, rounded bowl like the tulip glass. However, unlike the balloon glass, it doesn't trap aromas but rather releases them. This is why the surface area of ​​the wine in contact with the air is much larger. This allows the tertiary aromas (dried fruit, caramel, spices, tobacco) to express themselves more fully.

✓ Advantages of the balloon glass

• Reveals the maximum complexity of old ports (tawny 20–40 years, colheita, vintage 15+ years)
• Allows the wide rotation necessary to ventilate closed vintage items or those with sediment.
• Comfortable for long (30–60 minutes) and contemplative tastings

✗ Limitations of the balloon glass

• Rapid evaporation of alcohol can diminish the intensity of light ports (white, rosé)
• Bulky: 8–10 cm in diameter, 15–18 cm in height, requires significant storage space
• Price generally higher: €18–80 depending on the quality of the crystal

Optimal use context: As you might have guessed, with a balloon glass, you need to take your time. This is perfect, as it showcases the most expensive aged Ports. It's synonymous with exceptional moments and pure pleasure.

Price range: Available at Limonadier starting at €10 each. Available in sets with free delivery. No need to do as sommeliers do and buy a set from Baccarat or Riedel to enjoy a good Port.

Why does INAO glass remain the reference tool for professionals?

The INAO glass is the sommelier's standard tool. It was created by the institute of the same name, INAO. It's a glass designed with standard dimensions (a 46 mm opening and a 155 mm height). Its capacity is 215 ml. If the dimensions vary, it's not an INAO glass. The goal is to ensure sommeliers can test wines under the same conditions to be objective in their evaluations.

✓ Advantages of INAO glass

• A globally recognized professional standard, facilitating technical exchanges
• Versatile for all types of port: ruby, tawny, vintage, colheita, LBV, white
• Ideal for learning: allows you to focus on the wine rather than the container

Optimal usage context:

Why use an INAO glass, you might ask? Indeed, an enthusiast seeking to fully appreciate a spirit wouldn't use one. However, when tasting several ports, this type of glass helps to replicate the same tasting conditions.

Price range: Also available in our online store with a starting price around 10 euros. As with the others, it is available for purchase individually or in bulk.

How to quickly compare the three main types of lenses?

How to choose the right glass according to your tasting profile?

Beginner profile: simplicity and versatility

Recommendation: Start with two mid-range tulip glasses (€15-25 each) or a set of four INAO glasses (€20-30 for the set). This approach allows you to explore different styles of port without a major investment.

• Rationale: Tulip glass covers 70% of the needs with ruby, LBV, rosé and young vintage wines
• Alternative: The INAO offers more versatility but less aromatic specialization
• Total budget: €30-50 to get started properly
• Evolution: Add a balloon glass after 6-12 months if you develop an attraction to aged tawny whiskies.

Profile of an informed amateur: a complete and balanced set

Recommendation: Create a tulip (2 glasses) + balloon (2 glasses) duo in good quality crystal (€25-40/piece). Total investment: €100-160.

• Rationale: Covers all styles of port with tools optimized for each category
• Recommended crystal manufacturers: Schott Zwiesel, Spiegelau, Chef & Sommelier (mid-range)
• Additional options: 4 extra INAO glasses (€25) for friendly comparative tastings
• Lifespan: 5-10 years with careful maintenance, depreciation €15-30/year

Professional profile: separate work tools and pleasure

Recommendation: INAO professional set (12-24 glasses, €60-150) for professional activity + personal specialty glasses for pleasure tasting.

• Justification: INAO ensures standardization and reproducibility for technical assessments
• A pleasurable investment: A selection of high-end glasses (€150-€300) for personal moments
• Maintenance: Professional glasswasher or dedicated handwashing service to preserve quality
• Renewal: 10-20% of the fleet annually (breakage, wear and tear of drinking tubes)

In conclusion: which port glass should you choose for your profile?

As we have just realized, there is no single ideal glass that suits all types of Port. However, there are several glass shapes that are suited to each type of Port. This is why the most important thing for a Port enthusiast is, first and foremost, to thoroughly understand the profile of their Port.
For the glass, Limonadier recommends having a tulip glass and an INAO glass in your home because these two types of glasses can be reused to taste all other spirits, wines etc.