These glasses, with their elongated, fluted bowls and knopped stems were likely intended to serve ale or champagne. In early America, ale was a refined beverage worthy of fine stemware. Earlier, in the 18th century, ale glasses could often be distinguished by the wheat and hops engraved on their bowls. The heavier appearance and simple fluted decoration of these glasses are indications of their 19th-century manufacture.

The glasses may have also doubled as champagne flutes since the two vessel types had similar shapes and were often used interchangeably during the period. True champagne flutes, however, were generally deeper, narrower, and more delicate or were engraved with clusters of grapes and grapevines. Champagne began to be commonly consumed in this country in the early decades of the 19th century.