Why Shape Matters

Claus Riedel (9th Riedel generation) was the first designer to recognize that the shape of the glass affects the bouquet, taste, balance and finish of wines. Georg Riedel (10th generation) discovered that the correct choice of glass enhances the flavors and aromas of wine. By creating glasses that deliver the typical components of a grape variety, the glass will highlight balanced flavors, maximize fruit and integrate acidity or tannins into the overall pleasure of wine enjoyment. A person interested in wine is led by color, bouquet and taste, but often the glass is not considered as an instrument to convey the message of the wine. Riedel recognizes the complex role that size and shape play in conveying a fine wine.

Bouquet: When wine is poured, the bouquet immediately starts to evaporate and its aromas fill the glass in layers according to their density and specific gravity.

Taste: Every wine has its own blend of fruit, acidity, minerals, tannin and alcohol that are based on the grape variety, climate and soil on which it is grown.

Shape: To fully appreciate the different grape varieties and the characteristics of individual wines, it is essential to have a glass whose shape is fine-tuned for the purpose. The shape is responsible for the quality and intensity of the bouquet and the flow of the wine.

Size: The size of the glass affects the quality and intensity of aromas. Red wines require large glasses, white wines medium-sized glasses and spirits small glasses (to emphasize the fruit character and not the alcohol).

Serving Quantities: The glass should never be over-filled. Red wine: four to five ounces; white wine: three ounces; spirits: one ounce.