Selecting the Perfect Wine Glasses

Sparkling full lead crystal wine glasses from France. Fine crystal defines good taste and makes wine taste better. The first wine glass, according to myth, was made by Aphrodite cutting a bubble of sea foam in half as she was emerging from the sea. The art of French glassblowing nearly replicates that clarity and delicacy. Who should know better crystal for serving wine than the French?

Saint Louis crystal. The glassworks of Saint Louis have been crafting the finest crystal coveted by kings, emperors, heads of state, and connoisseurs since 1586. In the province of Lorraine, on the eastern border of France, a region graced with rich sands and expansive forests, Saint Louis flourished. Louis XV placed it under the protection of his patron saint in 1767. Supported by this abundance of natural resources, they were the first to perfect lead crystal in 1781, then being recognized as a crystallerie. They played a central role in the golden age of the 19th century, with major technical and ornamental innovations, all of which are still represented in current pieces. For over 400 years, Saint Louis has continued to hand blow each piece, passing on the technique from generation to generation. Expertly crafted hand cut leaded crystal radiates light achieving exceptional brilliance on each unique piece. Fine design and engraving are enhanced by the precision of the artist’s brush. Due to its delicate nature, hand washing is recommended.

Selecting Wine Glasses, stemware and barware

Baccarat brilliantly clear crystal wine glasses


Grand Bordeaux Set by Baccarat	Baccarat Set of 2 Wine Tasting Glasses/Burgundy
Baccarat Grand Bordeaux Wine Tasting Glasses come in a set of two and are handcrafted of full lead crystal	Stunning crystal is designed with a connoisseur's touch, from the slightly flared shape to the full bowl that offers extra room for swirling and breathing

Color


Vega Rhine Wine Glasses by Baccarat	Vega Flutissimos by Baccarat
Designed for today's contemporary lifestyle and expression of personal entertaining styles. Simple, easy to integrate and multi-functional, each piece is an exemplary marriage of beauty and practicality that is sure to delight with each use.	Designed for today's contemporary lifestyle and expression of personal entertaining styles. Simple, easy to integrate and multi-functional, each piece is an exemplary marriage of beauty and practicality that is sure to delight with each use.

Historically, colored wine glasses hid cloudy, dull wines which contained sediment, so by tradition, the hock glass is often a jewel tone. Vintners have learned to "fine" their wines. The sight of a deep ruby Pinot Noir, a golden Chardonnay or bubbles rising in Champagne, can make this an important part of the experience. Held in the light, there should be no blue or yellow tinge to clear crystal.

Clarity

Fine crystal should be absolutely clear, no bubbles.

Mille Nuits Clear Flute by Baccarat

Designed for today's contemporary lifestyle and expression of personal entertaining styles. Simple, easy to integrate and multi-functional, each piece is an exemplary marriage of beauty and practicality that is sure to delight with each use

Feel

Stemware should feel balanced in your hand (not top heavy) and stand evenly. The rim should be thin, even and smooth to the touch. A gentle tap produces a bell tone indicating surface strength.

Care

In a dishwasher, be sure you know the type of detergent and temperature recommended. If washing by hand, gently dip the glass into warm, soapy water bowl down. Dry carefully. Heat expands and makes them more fragile. Store upright. With care, they will last for generations.

Size and Shape

Standard setting includes goblets, 6 ounce white/rosé wines, 8 ounce red wines and champagne flutes, although you will serve only 2-3 oz. of white or 3-5 oz. of red per glass. A taller bowl allows you to enjoy the layers of aroma as the wine evaporates, straighter sides for whites, balloon shape for reds. The mouth should be slightly narrower to gather aroma, but not touch the nose when drinking. Modern table patterns often simplify to the basic shapes shown.

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