Moving into the 17th century, the stem became more than just a practical feature, evolving into an area of true craftsmanship. This era saw the creation of 'balusters' - glasses with heavy, ornate stems, often used at banquets and high society events. The stem was no longer just functional; it was an opportunity for artists to demonstrate their skill and creativity.

The wine stem's evolution continued well into the 18th and 19th centuries. As different wine varieties gained popularity, wine glasses, including their stems, began to diversify. Nowadays, we have an array of wine glasses tailored for specific types of wines, each with its unique stem design. From tall and slender to short and stout, the stem has come a long way, symbolizing the perfect blend of functionality, artistry, and elegance.

The story of the wine stem takes us back to ancient times when drinking vessels were merely functional and aesthetics were not a prime concern. While the wine itself has been produced and enjoyed for thousands of years, the stemmed wine glass is a relatively newer development. It wasn't until the Renaissance, around the 15th century, when glassblowing techniques advanced, that the first stemmed wine glasses started to appear. These delicate creations were seen as a mark of refinement, and owning such glassware was a status symbol.

Stemmed glasses were initially used for more than just their good looks. In fact, they had a practical purpose. The stem was specifically designed to prevent the heat from one's hand from warming the wine. Temperature plays a huge role in the flavor and enjoyment of wine, especially whites and rosés, and this clever design helped keep the wine at the ideal temperature for longer periods.