As an ex-hotel employee, I had the opportunity and distinguished honor to meet the Riedel family as regular guests in my former hotel. As I became the owner of the first wine variety glasses I was able to experience the difference in consuming wine. Just like every tourist guide, I am also passionate about history so I dug into their family roots. Since then I have admired the timeless values and heritage, that the family created. If you are in Austria, you can’t leave without getting to know these luxury products. To value the fact that we can drink wine today from their glasses we must go back in time…
In 1756, a year that witnessed the birth of the musical genius Mozart, the first wine region in Portugal was officially registered, and the legendary Casanova orchestrated his daring escape from the Doge’s Palace in Venice. Amidst this bygone era, Empress Maria Theresa held sway over the Austrian Empire, while ominous signs of impending turmoil loomed over Europe.
Against the backdrop of the Seven Years' War, Austria-Hungary sought to reclaim the historic region of Silesia, spanning parts of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Germany. The battles waged by the great powers reverberated across the continent. In the years that followed, governments across Europe embraced agricultural modernization and industrial development in a bid to revive their economies.
It was during this era of optimism that a company emerged, destined to become the epitome of high-quality glass craftsmanship in the centuries to come. Founded in Bohemia, then a part of the Habsburg Monarchy, by the visionary Johann Leopold Riedel of the third generation, this dynasty's story became inextricably linked with the art of glassmaking.
The Riedel family's legacy as master glassmakers is steeped in poignant legends and incredible success stories, as well as weathering economic crises and personal tragedies. Through a blend of skill and innovation, the Riedel company weathered the end of the monarchy, navigated the social upheavals following the establishment of the Czechoslovak Republic, and withstood the ravages of the global economic crisis.
In the aftermath of the Second World War, the Riedel family faced dispossession, losing all their holdings in Bohemia, including their factories and personal assets. Walter Riedel, the eighth generation of the family, endured a decade of imprisonment in Russia, and the future seemed bleak. However, a different narrative unfolded, one shaped by Walter Riedel's remarkable courage and relentless determination. It is his enduring legacy that rekindled the Bohemian Riedel tradition in Kufstein, Tyrol, Austria.
For me a Riedel glass is „The Wine Glass as a Canvas”. What sets Riedel apart is their commitment to creating wine-specific glassware. Each glass is meticulously designed to enhance the unique characteristics of different grape varietals. It's as if the glass itself becomes a canvas, painting the wine's story in the most vivid and nuanced way possible.
The Sensory Experience is something you must try! During a workshop that was presented by Georg Riedel I saw some scepticism vapoured away. Every single participant was convinced without any doubt that THE WINE GLASS we’re holding in our hands. The Riedel glasses are not just vessels for wine; they are instruments that engage all the senses. When you hold a Riedel glass, you can feel the delicate balance of form, function, and luxury. The shape, size, and curvature of the glassware are all meticulously calculated to capture the wine's aroma and direct it to your nose in the most pleasing way. As you take that first sip, you'll notice how the wine effortlessly glides across your palate, accentuating its flavors and textures.
When you love a type of wine you must choose your glass. The Riedel portfolio boasts an extensive collection of varietal-specific glasses. From the elegant Vinum series to the luxurious Sommeliers collection, there's a glass tailored to suit every wine lover's taste. Whether you're sipping on a robust Cabernet Sauvignon or a delicate Chardonnay, Riedel has the perfect vessel to enhance your experience.
Owning these glasses the „Art of Entertaining” comes to your home! Riedel glasses are not just for personal enjoyment; they're designed for sharing. Hosting a wine-tasting or dinner party becomes an elevated affair when you serve your guests Riedel glassware. It's a testament to your commitment to providing the best possible experience for those you entertain.
Am I exaggerating when I say that it is a „Global Phenomenon”? The Riedel family's dedication to their craft has made them a global sensation. Their luxury products can be found in renowned wineries, Michelin-starred restaurants, and the homes of wine enthusiasts worldwide. The legacy of innovation and the pursuit of perfection continue to drive the Riedel family to this day.
The Riedel family's exceptional wine variety glasses are not just tools for savoring wine; they are works of art that enhance the entire wine-drinking experience. With each glass they produce, the Riedel family reaffirms their commitment to crafting elegance, one sip at a time. So, the next time you uncork a bottle of your favorite vintage, consider the vessel from which you sip and raise your glass to the legacy of the Riedel family.
Dear gentle reader, as you just explored the rich history and artistry of the Riedel family's luxury products, you may find yourself inspired to add a touch of elegance to your own glassware collection. To experience the magic of sipping from a Riedel glass, consider visiting your local Riedel store, where you can choose the perfect vessel to elevate your wine moments.
Discover the beauty of craftsmanship that has spanned 11 generations, and raise your glass to a future, filled with the joy of wine appreciation!
