A RIEDEL wine glass set can be a useful addition to your dining table, home wine bar or gift list. However, the different models vary considerably in their shape, capacity, manufacturing method and what’s included. If you choose based only on appearance or a large capacity, you could end up with glasses that aren’t suited to your favourite wine or everyday use.
A glass with a capacity of 800 or 900 ml may look generous, but it isn’t filled to the brim. The extra space allows the aromas to develop and gives you room to swirl the wine. However, a very large bowl can be impractical for light white wines or sparkling wine. So it’s the bowl shape and intended use that matter, not just the capacity in millilitres.
RIEDEL crystal glasses are available in machine-made and handmade versions. Machine production can ensure consistent dimensions, while handmade glasses may have individual variations, such as hand-attached stems or distinctive bases. The term ‘crystal’ alone doesn’t tell you whether a glass is suitable for everyday use, as a single glass or as part of a gift set.
Many of the models listed here are described as dishwasher-safe. That doesn’t mean you can wash them without taking care. Thin stems, large bowls and handmade elements need plenty of space in the dishwasher. You should also avoid abrasive sponges, sudden changes in temperature and twisting the stem and bowl against each other.
Grape-variety-specific wine glasses are designed around the typical characteristics of particular wines. RIEDEL red wine glasses for Pinot Noir often have a generous bowl that gives the aromas room to develop. Bordeaux and Cabernet-Merlot glasses, by contrast, are designed for full-bodied, structured red wines.
White and sparkling wines have different requirements:
The grape variety recommendations from the manufacturer are a guide, not a guarantee of a particular taste experience. Personal preference, serving temperature and the character of the wine also matter.
When choosing, distinguish between crystal glass, machine-made models and handmade models. Machine-made glasses often have a consistent shape, making them a practical choice for sets of matching glasses. Handmade options such as the Fatto-a-Mano range put more emphasis on individual design.
Look out for the following details:
A set of 4 wine glasses is a good choice for hosts, couples who’d like a spare glass, or households that prefer a matching table setting. A set of 2 may be more suitable if just two people regularly drink the same type of wine. Single glasses are particularly appealing to collectors, as special gifts or for adding to an existing collection.
Why this product suits you: This set of 2 is an accessible introduction to grape-variety-specific red wine glasses. It’s suited to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Bordeaux blends, Rioja and Tempranillo.
The clear grape-variety recommendation helps you avoid choosing a generic all-purpose glass based solely on its size. The set contents are clearly listed as two glasses.
650 ml capacity, machine-made lead crystal, made in Germany and described as dishwasher-safe.
Why this product suits you: This handmade single glass is for buyers looking to make a statement at the table and find a glass for full-bodied Bordeaux wines, Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
The product description clearly points out the handmade elements and the possibility of individual variations. You can therefore expect each glass to have its own character rather than being perfectly identical to others in a production run.
Handmade crystal glass, 950 ml capacity, black crystal base and described as dishwasher-safe on a gentle cycle.
Why this product suits you: This set is ideal for hosts and frequent users who want to serve sparkling wine, Champagne or Prosecco in four matching glasses.
The egg-shaped bowl is easy to distinguish from a classic flute. Both the capacity and set contents are clearly specified.
Set of 4 crystal glasses, 375 ml per glass, described as dishwasher-safe and featuring a Sparkling Point.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
How long your glasses last depends more on how you handle them than on whether they’re described as ‘crystal glass’. Arrange them in the dishwasher so they won’t knock against each other or be held under tension. For handmade models, a gentle wash cycle with plenty of space around each glass is recommended. Once the cycle is finished, let the glasses cool completely before removing them.
Also avoid:
Check your glasses regularly for cracks, chips or sharp edges. Don’t continue to use damaged glasses.
The models mentioned in this guide are described as dishwasher-safe in their respective product descriptions. Even so, leave plenty of space around them, use a suitable programme and avoid harsh cleaning products. For particularly delicate or handmade glasses, hand-washing may be the gentler option.
Options for Pinot Noir include the RIEDEL Vinum Pinot Noir, the RIEDEL Veritas Alte Welt Pinot Noir and the RIEDEL Performance Pinot Noir set. Consider the set size and capacity you want, and whether you’d prefer a machine-made set or a single handmade glass.
A set of 4 is a good fit for hosts, families and regular wine gatherings. A set of 2 suits couples or buyers who want to add glasses for a particular grape variety. If you’re interested in a special single glass, buying one on its own may make sense when design and craftsmanship are your priorities.