What is Magnum and Why Give it a Try?

What is Magnum and Why Give it a Try?

Feb 19, 2024Simmi Manghwani
A magnum is nothing but referred to the size of a wine bottle. It is double the size of a regular bottle.

But is there more to it? Yes.

Did winemakers lose it while making their wine bottles bigger and bigger? No.

Did big bottles actually make a difference? Yes.

And also some vivid questions like: How much is a magnum of wine? Or, how big is a magnum of wine?


To answer all your questions, let us dig deeper into what is magnum and everything above and beyond magnum.

define magnum

What is Magnum?


While the term Magnum sounds like altogether a different type of beverage, Magnum simply refers to larger-sized wine bottles. The winemakers keep experimenting with different ways to ace the taste of the wine and creating differently-sized wine bottles is one of them. However, wine bottle sizes do not stop with just Magnum and go way beyond.

Wine Bottle Sizes


Before we define Magnum wines in detail, let's grasp the basics of wine bottle sizes. Most of us are familiar with the standard 750 ml bottle, but did you know there are actually 13 different sizes of wine bottles? Many of them bigger than the others. These are:

  • Split (187.5 ml)

  • Half (375 ml)

  • Standard size (750 ml)

  • Magnum (1.5 L)

  • Double Magnum (3.0 L)

  • Jeroboam/Rehoboam (4.5 L)

  • Methuselah (6.0 L)

  • Salmanazar (9.0 L)

  • Balthazar (12.0 L)

  • Nebuchadnezzar (15.0 L)

  • Solomon (20.0 L)

  • Sovereign (26.0 L), and

  • Melchizedek (30.0 L)


Read our guide on the types of large wine bottles.

how big is a magnum of wine

Exploring Magnum Wine Bottles


Now comes the exact part, what is a magnum? Wine Magnum size is twice the size of the standard bottle sizes and take it up a notch by holding 1.5 liters of wine holding up to 16 glasses of wine. To put it into perspective, if you ask - how many bottles in a Magnum - well it is equivalent to two standard wine bottles. Basically, these are larger than standard wine bottles and smaller than double magnum wine bottles.

Magnum bottles are not simply scaled-up versions of their smaller counterparts; they are crafted with precision and care. Many renowned winemakers choose Magnum bottles for their premium offerings. Wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Bordeaux blends are often found in Magnums, showcasing the winemaker's confidence in the wine's aging potential. The result is a richer, more nuanced flavor profile that sets Magnum wines apart.

Just like standard bottles, magnums come in different sizes and shapes. For example, darker bottles protect the wine from harmful UV rays, crucial for preserving delicate flavors. The unique shapes of bottles, such as the slender design of a Riesling bottle or the broad shoulders of a Burgundy bottle, are not arbitrary; they are carefully chosen to complement the characteristics of the wine they contain.

what is a magnum

8 Benefits of Magnum Wine Bottles


The larger volume reduces the surface area of wine exposed to the air, slowing down oxidation and allowing the wine to develop complex flavors over an extended period.

  • Extended Aging Potential: Magnum bottles provide a larger volume of wine with a smaller ratio of air to wine. This reduced surface area exposure to oxygen slows down the aging process and oxidation. As a result, wines in Magnum bottles tend to age more gracefully, allowing for the development of complex and refined flavors over an extended period.

  • Enhanced Stability: The larger size and thicker glass of Magnum bottles contribute to increased stability during storage. This can be particularly advantageous for wines that benefit from extended cellaring. The robust structure of Magnum bottles helps maintain the integrity of the wine by minimizing the risk of temperature fluctuations and light exposure.

  • Perfect for Special Occasions: Magnum bottles make a bold statement and are often associated with celebratory occasions. Whether it's a wedding, anniversary, or a milestone achievement, the uncorking of a Magnum becomes a focal point of the celebration. The grandeur and visual impact of a Magnum bottle add an extra layer of festivity to any event.

  • Ideal for Sharing: Magnum bottles are designed for sharing and communal enjoyment. The larger quantity of wine makes them perfect for entertaining guests or sharing with a group of friends.

  • Collectible and Prestigious: Magnum bottles are often associated with premium and collectible wines. Many prestigious winemakers choose to release limited editions or special cuvées exclusively in Magnum format. Collectors value Magnum bottles for their rarity, making them sought-after additions to wine cellars and collections.

  • Unique Gift Option: Magnum bottles make for a unique and memorable gift. The sheer size and elegance of the bottle add a touch of luxury, making it an impressive present for wine enthusiasts or those celebrating significant milestones.

  • Temperature Regulation: The larger volume of wine in Magnum bottles provides better insulation against temperature fluctuations. This can be particularly beneficial for wines that are sensitive to temperature changes. Magnum bottles offer a more stable environment for the wine, helping to preserve its character and prevent premature aging.

  • Attention to Craftsmanship: Winemakers who choose to bottle their wines in Magnum format often do so as a statement of confidence in the quality of their product. Magnum bottles showcase a commitment to craftsmanship and excellence, emphasizing the meticulous care that goes into producing exceptional wines.


how many bottles in a magnum

To Summarize, magnum Singapore is nothing but a name given to the larger-sized bottles of wine as compared to the standard bottles. The larger size has many benefits attached to it rather than just being aesthetic. Explore your favorite wine Singapore grape in magnum size today!

Go Big!

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