If wine is important to you, yes. As a wine writer, I am very impressed at how these glasses are educational aids, helping me find nuances in wine that might otherwise go unnoticed. The glasses do not alter the wine, only your perception and enjoyment of it. Yet I am also visualizing where I can put the glasses (Max says you do not need to buy each of the dozens of shapes, just the major varietals or the varietals you drink most often). I also know my domestic limitations, and see many shattered glasses in my future – hopefully without the blood and gore Max mentioned that can sometimes be attributed to WUI (washing under the influence).
I am excited to put this new glassware program into action. For now, I am going to start small and see what happens – definitely individual glasses for Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Do not cheat and get one glass for all white wines, you will be wasting your money and ruining what would have been a great experience. There is an exact science behind each glass and the varietal it is meant for. The Pinot Noir glass was also fabulous and teased out the aromas of the wine, but then again, I really do not drink so much Pinot, so that glass can wait. I will also consider the Cabernet glass, but I need to dialogue with Max or a Riedel specialist about this as I drink mostly blends from the Southern Rhone and Riedel might offer a better choice.
So there you have it. Three glasses (well, make that six – never know when a friend might join) for a good start. Feel free to email me how I’m doing after a month. I myself am curious if I will dare hand wash a glass and end up in the ER and Max’s photo collection, or play it safe and load a single glass into the dishwasher for a spin. Sometimes you just have to live dangerously...
Article comments
1 - Joanne Huspek
Marisa, if my husband wasn't a God among glass breakers, I would take your advice. I especially laughed at your first sentence! In my house, there is no such thing as "too many glasses." I buy extras when they're on sale and keep them in the basement for when my one man wrecking crew drops one.
Likewise, I wish I could have a glass for each varietal, but I'm lucky I have something for white, red, robust reds and champagne.
Maybe when I hit the lottery. :-)