Bottle Shapes

Wine generally comes packaged in several, different shaped bottles. The Bordelaise (straight sides, distinctive shoulders) is used for Bordeaux blends or its individual varietals (Cabernet, Merlot, etc.). The Burgundy (sturdy, heavier, gently sloping shoulders) is mostly used for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The “flute” or “hock” (long, narrow) used primarily in Alsace and Germany, tends to house Riesling and Gewürztraminer everywhere. Finally, the Rhone (similar to the Burgundy, but slimmer with less girth) is utilized for Rhone-type grapes like Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Cinsault, Viognier and their blends. Bottle shape plays no role other than to distinguish one wine/varietal/style from another