How many bottles in a magnum? A guide to wine bottle sizes

A magnum holds 1.5 litres of wine, the same as two standard 75cl bottles. That’s around 12 glasses. Magnums are perfect for parties and celebrations, and there are some great reasons why wine lovers seek them out. Here’s a simple guide to wine bottle sizes, from tiny quarter bottles to the giant Nebuchadnezzar.

Wine bottle sizes at a glance

• Quarter bottle or Piccolo (18.75–20cl): a single glass, often used for sparkling wine.
• Half bottle (37.5cl): half a standard bottle, around 3 glasses. Common for dessert wines.
• Standard bottle (75cl): around 6 glasses.
• Litre (100cl): often used for sherry, port and everyday wines.
• Magnum (1.5 litres): 2 bottles, around 12 glasses.
• Jeroboam (3 litres): 4 bottles in Champagne. In Bordeaux the name can mean a larger bottle.
• Rehoboam (4.5 litres): 6 bottles.
• Methuselah (6 litres): 8 bottles.
• Salmanazar (9 litres): 12 bottles, a whole case.
• Balthazar (12 litres): 16 bottles.
• Nebuchadnezzar (15 litres): 20 bottles.

Most of the giant names come from Biblical kings and figures. The very largest bottles are mostly used for Champagne and are rare and expensive.

Why buy a magnum?

It looks spectacular

A magnum on the table instantly makes an occasion feel special. It’s a brilliant centrepiece for a party, wedding or big birthday.

The wine can taste better

Many wine lovers believe wine ages more slowly and gracefully in a magnum. The amount of air in the neck is roughly the same as in a standard bottle, but there’s twice as much wine, so the wine is less affected by oxygen. Champagne in magnum is often said to taste fresher and more complex.

It’s perfect for sharing

One magnum serves a table of six people two glasses each, with no need to keep opening bottles.

Magnums to try

Nyetimber Classic Cuvée Magnum is a show-stopping English sparkling wine. Arthur Metz Crémant d’Alsace Brut Magnum is a great-value alternative to Champagne magnums, and Fleurs de Prairie Côtes de Provence Rosé Magnum is perfect for summer parties. For something different, Bottega Rose Gold Magnum makes a real impression. And for red wine lovers, Muratie Martin Melck Cabernet Sauvignon Magnum from South Africa is a superb dinner party bottle.

Smaller bottles worth knowing

Small bottles are handy when you only want a glass or two, and great for picnics and gifts.

• Freixenet Cordon Negro Cava 20cl comes in a handy case of mini bottles, perfect for parties.
• Château Les Riganes Bordeaux 187ml is a single serving of red.
• Half bottles are classic for dessert wines, such as Château Violet Sauternes 37.5cl.
• Graham’s Mini Port Selection offers five 5cl tasters.

Serving from a big bottle

Large bottles are heavy, so pour with two hands: one around the base and one supporting the neck. Chill sparkling magnums for longer than standard bottles; an ice bucket with plenty of water and ice is the quickest way. Our guide to serving Champagne has more tips.

FAQs

How many glasses are in a magnum?

Around 12 standard 125ml glasses, or 10 larger 150ml glasses.

Is a magnum more expensive than two bottles?

Often slightly, because large bottles are made in small numbers. Many people feel the extra quality and theatre are worth it.

What’s the biggest wine bottle?

The Nebuchadnezzar, at 15 litres, is the largest commonly made size. Even larger bottles exist but are extremely rare.

For more party ideas, read our guide to the best Champagne for parties.