Glassware & Drinkware

Whether you’re putting together a registry and starting from scratch or simply replenishing your home bar, you probably have a few questions about how to find drinkware that fits your budget and your style.

We’ve got answers—and all the glassware you’re looking for—right here at Macy’s. So, before you add those crystal goblets to your cart, let’s begin with the basics.

What Is Considered Glassware?

Glassware is, in short, anything that goes on your table that’s made of glass.

This term encompasses all glass drinkware, from the heavy glass tumbler you fill with water every day of the year to delicate stemware used for serving wine and champagne that you only bring out for special occasions.

Glassware styles can be simple and pared-back or extremely ornate, with faceted patterns that allow light to dance across the surface of the beverage.

What Is Glassware Made Of?

Glassware can be made of a variety of chemical compounds like borosilicate, fused quartz or soda-lime, which is also called tempered glass. Soda-lime glass (tempered glass) is the most widely available. Crystal can be made of any of these, but also has lead oxide or metal oxide added to it.

What Are The Different Types Of Glassware?

The most common types of drinking glasses you’ll see are tumblers for water and juice, wine glasses, beer glasses and cocktail glasses.

Beyond the instantly recognizable glasses used for martinis and margaritas, there are also unique cocktail glasses that range from tiny (for cordials, grappa and schnapps) to tall (such as highball glasses that need to accommodate lots of ice) to extremely specific (like glass Irish coffee mugs).

What Should I Buy First?

Some people find it easier to purchase a multi-piece glass set when they need multiple types of drinkware for their home. But other than that, what you buy first will depend on your preferences. If you’re a scotch aficionado, invest in some good snifters. If you love merlot, start with red wine glasses.

Is Glassware Interchangeable?

Well, you probably wouldn’t want to drink wine out of a beer glass, but some glassware serves multiple purposes. For example, old fashioned glasses aren’t just for bourbon; they’re perfect for classic cocktails like a Negroni or a White Russian, too.

Some drinkware can be used for other things besides a beverage. Treating dinner guests to shot glasses filled with cold soup (like gazpacho) makes a lovely start to the meal. Desserts like ice cream, sorbet and granita look elegant when they’re served in coupe-style champagne glasses.

You’ll find the right glasses for any type of drink (& more) at Macy’s.