Last week, we went on an adventure through the mysterious world of wine glasses. It turns out picking the type of glass is only half the battle. You also have to select a pattern. If you’re panicking about which pattern to choose, have no fear, I’ll walk you through 5 of Waterford’s most popular designs and what makes them such stunning classics.  

Part of a series of patterns named after Irish girls, Alana means “darling” in Gaelic. Despite being officially discontinued, Alana remains a popular Waterford pattern (and we have some in the shop, so you can still get it for yourself!).

The vertical cuts are deep and narrow, while the diamond-shaped patterns are wider and more open, creating a contrast between the two designs that gives the glass a unique and eye-catching look. 

Alana has also inspired several variations:

Alana Essence – a simplified, modern version of the Alana pattern with fewer cuts and a streamlined silhouette

Alana Platinum – the classic Alana pattern with the addition of a platinum band around the rim of each piece, gorgeously elevating the design with such a simple inclusion

Alana Prestige – a more dramatic version of the Alana pattern with wider cuts and more weight, creating a bolder piece. This variation also comes in both green and lavender crystal

Alana Interiors – this line features the Alana pattern etched into a variety of home decor items

First introduced in 1985, the Araglin pattern is inspired by the mountainous valley of Araglin in County Cork. The pattern features a combination of crisscross cuts and vertical lines arranged in an intricate and delicate design, creating a lattice-like pattern around the glass. Vertical lines add height to the pattern, emphasizing its elegance.

Araglin is my favorite Waterford pattern and I was disappointed to learn it’s discontinued. Based on it’s popularity, the Araglin pattern can still be purchased in Waterford’s Heritage sets. These sets feature 6 glasses in 6 of Waterford’s classic designs. If you’re just looking for Araglin and don’t want to bother with a Heritage set, have no fear, check out what we have in stock here! It comes in pretty much any glass type you can imagine (check out last week’s blog if you’re trying to decide which one is best). This gorgeous design will truly never go out of style and it’s a stunning addition to any stemware or drinkware collection.

Like most popular patterns, Araglin also comes in variations, though fewer than some. Araglin is offered in Golden and Platinum variations which include a colored rim for a bit of added elegance.

Compared to the other patterns we’ve discussed, Powerscourt is a relatively new Waterford pattern although sadly already discontinued. Introduced in 2002, the design is based on the magnificent Powerscourt Estate in Wicklow, Ireland. This estate is known for its gorgeous gardens and incredible architecture. To emulate this, the Powerscourt pattern uses the geometric shapes of that architecture with deep and intricate cuts. This pattern is bold and stately and one I would end up staring at rather than using if I had it in my home.

Powerscourt is available in the full range of glassware, so whatever glass you’re looking to add to your collection, you’ll likely be able to find it in the Powerscourt pattern. I recommend wider glasses, like sherbet glasses, or tumblers to get the full effect of this incredible pattern.

The original Powerscourt pattern is so striking on it’s own, that variations feel unnecessary. Waterford designed an incredible Mastercraft version of Powerscourt and the current offerings in the collection are breathtaking, although, in my opinion, not practical. I highly recommend checking out the original Powerscourt drinkware collection over the Powerscourt vases currently offered by Waterford. 

The Tramore design may be discontinued, but it’s popularity has dictated it’s inclusion in the Heritage Sets. This beautiful design is inspired by the coastal town of Tramore in County Waterford, Ireland. Introduced in 1956, this pattern is designed to inspire thoughts of sandy beaches and coastal views. Tramore includes deep vertical cuts and a crisscross diamond and wedge pattern. The design truly inspires thoughts of coastal breezes and relaxing beach days, making it a unique choice compared to some of the more immediately striking and classically elegant designs offered by Waterford.

If you have beach life aspirations, this is the design for you. The design feels open and airy while maintaining the style and fine craftsmanship all Waterford patterns are famous for. This design comes in all the classic stemware and drinkware and is a great addition to any collection.

The only variation of this pattern that I could track down is called the Waves of Tramore: A Mastercraft Collection of vases and bowls, released shortly after Tramore was discontinued. Designed to mimic waves with curved lines rather than the more traditional vertical cuts it’s a beautiful, though discontinued, twist on the traditional Tramore pattern. 

Which is the right pattern for you? It’s really up to you! You can’t go wrong with any of these spectacular patterns or their incredible inspirations. Don’t feel restricted to one pattern. Why not follow Waterford’s example and create your own “Heritage collection?” Mixing and matching a few of these exquisite designs would uniquely elevate any dinner table. If you’re feeling more traditional, pick your favorite design and grab a few matching glasses. Or, if you just don’t feel like sharing, grab a wine glass in your favorite pattern and reserve it for your exclusive use.