Nachtmann Bossa Nova

The two tumblers differ more in use than in appearance. The 23.5 cl is the small old fashioned size: meant for whisky neat or with one lump of ice, and too small for a mixed drink. The 33 cl is the more versatile choice, with room for a stirred cocktail or simply water with a meal. The long drink glass of 39.9 cl is tall and narrow and holds the fizz longer. The 116 cl pitcher stands apart and is the piece with which you serve a table without getting up every time.

Pour whisky neat into the 23.5 cl to about two fingers high, without ice, so you can catch the aroma above the glass. If you want it cold, use one large lump rather than loose cubes, because it melts more slowly and dilutes less. In the 33 cl you build an old fashioned straight in the glass, or stir a negroni of equal parts gin, red vermouth and bitter. For a dark 'n stormy you take the long drink glass.

Nachtmann makes Bossa Nova from lead-free crystal glass with barium and zinc, with which the brand achieves the clarity of lead crystal without lead. The relief is machine pressed and therefore has sharp, even ribs. The range can go in the dishwasher, but on a programme that does not go above fifty degrees, otherwise detergent settles in the grooves and the glass turns dull.

If you want a different pattern from the same brand, have a look at Nachtmann. If you are after a whisky glass with a smooth wall instead of relief, the whiskey glasses are the quieter choice. For water at the table there are more models among the water jugs. And to stir the ice in neatly without knocking against the ribs, a long bar spoon is the right tool.