wine glasses

[Bucko]

Riedel is considered by many to be the best stemware on the market. Founded in 1756, the Austrian based firm offers some interesting scientific explanations as to why the shape of a glass is so imperative for enjoying the bouquet and taste of alcoholic beverages. Many experts in the field tend to agree. Riedel stemware is not inexpensive. They have several lines of glasses, from the Vinum Series for as little as $6 per stem, to the Sommelier Series for as much as $89 per glass. You don’t throw the latter in the fireplace!

Founded in 1521, the Spiegelau Crystal business is located in the small town of Spiegelau, Germany, in the heart of the Bavarian Forest. Spiegelau glassware is known for its quality and affordability. While they make glasses for a host of different wines, only three are really necessary. The Bordeaux or Burgundy glass will suffice for red wines. The Chardonnay glass provides all that you need for white wines. The Champagne flute is self-explanatory. All of the glasses sell for seven to eight dollars a stem in the “Vino Grande” line. These really give good bang for the buck.

The French wine authority Institut National des Appellations d'Origine (I.N.A.O.) created a standardized glass for international wine tasting. The egg shaped bowl is designed to enhance the concentration of the aromas and allow the wine to be swirled without spilling. These glasses are produced by many manufacturers for as little as $2.25 each.

I personally use the Riedel Vinum Gourmet glass. This is a very good, all-around glass that can be purchased for only five to six dollars a stem from discounters. I did use the I.N.A.O. glass for several years; however, an experience at Columbia Winery changed my mind forever. They served me two wines, one in a standard tasting glass, and one in a Riedel Vinum Gourmet glass. They asked me if I preferred one wine over the other. The wine in the Gourmet glass was more to my liking. Imagine my surprise when they told me they were the exact same wines. The gourmet glass allowed the wine’s subtle nuances to stand out. There is nothing like personal experience to make you an advocate of fine glassware. Salute!