Riedel Wine Glass Comparative Workshop

[Dave_Butner]

I have no doubts that glassware makes a difference, but I find the whole Riedel spiel with a glass for each varietal to be a complete joke.

Read this…
http://www.jancisrobinson.com/files/pdfs/Shattered_Myths.pdf

[William_Strickler]

@Bob Sherwood

Bill, I’m curious what you think of that Riedel Tasting Glass. I’ve got those, too, and I do use them though I often wonder how exactly how an impression from a taste in that glass might correlate to later consumption from the “proper” glass.

Only benefit I can think of is that it allows for the small pours at tastings.

I don’t have the Riedel INAO glass, but a version imported by a (now-defunct) company out of PA. They were Austrian and leaded crystal made according to INAO specifications. That being said, you are correct they are great for small pours and I could buy (boxes of 4 glasses in) cases of 24 glasses for around $3.50 per glass for thin rimmed, genuine crystal glasses. My experience is that the INAO glass is a “take no prisoners” glass - no nuance (and no flaws) go undetected. Not necessarily the glass I want to use to really enjoy a wine, but a great glass for evaluating multiple similar wines side by side. I could be accused of letting my brain influence my taste, but the INAO seems to neither enhance or denigrate a wine while certain Riedels seem to present the wine in the best possible (most enjoyable) light. YMMV.

[John_Morris]

I’ve always found the INAO a handicap in tasting – pretty much useless for detecting good or bad. At least the Riedel “Impitoyable” lived up to the claim of revealing faults. The INAO seems to flatten everything out.

[J_Galang]

I just came from Bed Bath and Beyond, they are now selling non-crystal Vinum Extreme Bordeaux, Pinot, Riesling, Chardonnay and a weird Champagne glass (not extreme) that is like a larger version of the cuvee prestige for about $12.50 if you buy 4. These are strangely labeled “Heart to Heart” as you get a 50% percent discount on the second pair you buy (sold in pairs). The stickers say Tyrol Crystal behind the Riedel sticker. Compared side by side with the real extreme line, almost 100% identical in shape but stems are ~10% thicker.

[Howard_Cooper]

@John Morris

I’ve always found the INAO a handicap in tasting – pretty much useless for detecting good or bad. At least the Riedel “Impitoyable” lived up to the claim of revealing faults. The INAO seems to flatten everything out.

I did not realize Impitoyable was made by Riedel. Is that correct?

[Alan_Rath]

@Dave Butner

I have no doubts that glassware makes a difference, but I find the whole Riedel spiel with a glass for each varietal to be a complete joke.

Read this…
http://www.jancisrobinson.com/files/pdfs/Shattered_Myths.pdf

Great article, puts the question completely to rest, except for those who want to believe.