Both are reasonable ways to store tasting glasses like Zwiesel Glas’s Pure Bordeaux stemware — the choice comes down to available space and how the glasses are used.
A standing rack protects the stem and bowl well
A dedicated standing glass rack cradles each glass, generally offering good protection for the delicate stem and bowl, but needs its own shelf or counter footprint.
A hanging rack saves counter and shelf space
Suspending glasses base-up from a hanging rack under a cabinet or shelf frees up the counter and shelf space a standing rack would use — a genuine space-saving option for a smaller bar area.
Hanging racks carry some added exposure risk
Glasses hung base-up are more exposed to accidental bumps and dust settling into the bowl than glasses stored upright in a rack or cabinet — worth considering the specific location’s traffic and dust exposure before choosing this option.
What to choose
For a tight space where counter room matters most, a hanging rack is the space-efficient choice. For the best physical protection with space to spare, a standing rack is the safer option for delicate stemware.
What we would not do
Recommend a hanging rack in a high-traffic or dusty location without considering the added bump and dust exposure compared to a standing rack.
Last reviewed 25 August 2026