Zwiesel Glas, established in 1872 and rooted in the traditional glassmaking heritage of the Bavarian Forest, has become a trusted name in glassware. Zwiesel Glas sent me their Bordeaux Viña and The Moment range wine glasses to try, each suited to different occasions: ‘Viña’ for everyday use and ‘The Moment’ for those special occasions.
The Viña Burgundy goblet has an expansive, bulbous shape, ideal for enhancing the flavours and aromas of red wine. At 221 mm in height and 111 mm in diameter, these Tritan® crystal glasses are machine-blown yet retain a refined shape and feel, with a rim that isn’t too thick. I’ve been using them for several weeks with various wines, and they’ve quickly become my go-to choice for red wines. The large diameter enhances swirlability also creating a generous wine surface area that improves the aromatic intensity. The goblet’s shape also allows you to fully immerse your nose while sipping, heightening the tasting experience.
While they are Burgundy goblets, they are sold as versatile enough for a range of wines, including Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Despite their durability and dishwasher compatibility (don’t mist up) I prefer to handwash these to avoid detergent residue. In any case, unlike our existing Zwiesel Glas water glasses, their large size make them a challenge for standard dishwasher racks. At around £60 for six in the UK, these glasses are a great choice for a premium-feel yet robust, everyday workhorse wine glass.
The Moment range elevates wine appreciation with its handmade, mouth-blown elegance and award-winning design. Standing 270 mm tall with a 106 mm diameter, it delivers a great optical and tactile experience with its ultra-thin rim, providing a refined, luxurious feel. I was initially sceptical but I found that the wide, yet tulip, design really helps concentrate aromas, making it particularly suited for more aromatic wines. During a recent Rioja review, the glass performed brilliantly, allowing the wine’s bouquet to shine so intensely that just inhaling its aroma felt indulgent, a true “moment” befitting the glass’s name.
The Moment glass is also versatile, as it can accommodate wines such as Bordeaux, Pomerol, Barolo, Syrah and Malbec. However, its luxurious delicacy demands careful handling, making it best saved for special occasions. That said, I’ll also be using it to fully enjoy the more complex, aromatic wines. At around £146 for two in the UK, this is a premium product designed to impress, whether for guests or your own self-indulgence.
Viña serves as a durable, versatile workhorse for everyday use. The Moment, by contrast, is a refined, delicate choice for those special occasions when you want to indulge in a heightened sensory experience, particularly with aromatic wines.
