The Best Whiskey Glasses

Serious drinkers of whiskey require serious glassware. And that's what the folks at Riedel provide. Now, I realize that you can rarely get even two people to agree on "the best" of anything, but you'll be hard-pressed to find any self-respecting spirits aficionado who doesn't agree that Riedel makes the best whiskey glasses for the job...bar none. So how do they do it? Well, the short answer is this: They have spent years of research to find the perfect glass shape to enhance every variety of wine and spirit. The shorter answer is this: Who cares? Just try it for yourself. The proof is in the glass.

Sommeliers Series

Consider this the grand dame of all whiskey glasses. In 1992, Georg Riedel began working with master distillers in an attempt to create the perfect whiskey glass. The result is this handmade beauty - an elongated, thistle-shaped bowl on a truncated stem. The glass also has a slightly-flared lip to direct whiskey to the tip of the tongue, where sweetness is tasted. The effect this glass has on whiskey is nothing short of remarkable. Its shape serves to concentrate aromas and accentuate the soft, smooth characteristics of the spirit. At $50 per stem, this glass isn't cheap. But for serious tasters, it's an investment that will pay off many times over.

Vinum Series

This glass is nearly identical to the Sommeleiers series, except that it's machine-made. As a result, it's more reasonably priced at $15-20 per stem. This is a serious, high-quality glass for the money.

Ouverture Series

Riedel considers this line their beginner's series. Fortunately for us, their beginner's series is better than most company's high-end offerings. This glass is beautifully shaped and, most importantly, reasonably-priced (about $10 a stem), so it's perfect for everyday use. The glass was designed with bourbon in mind, and its shape helps to accentuate the complex sweetness and distinct oaky flavors. But, at this price, it works well with all whiskeys.

For more information

Visit the Riedel website.