Nachtmann Jules

The tall 37.5 cl glass has the larger capacity of the two and is meant for soft drinks, water and mixed drinks with ice. The 30.5 cl tumbler stands lower and is the classic size for whisky, cognac over ice or an aperitif. On cut glasses the density of the pattern determines how heavy the glass looks: Jules has a fine grid, which makes the range appear fuller than the actual wall thickness suggests. Count on six glasses per size for a fully laid table.

Cut glass shows best in raking light, so place the glasses next to a candle or lamp rather than behind one. Serve spirits neat in the tumbler, at room temperature and about four centilitres. The tall glass takes a Tom Collins with plenty of ice and a long strip of lemon peel, and a Negroni on the rocks in the tumbler lets the red colour run through the cut pattern. Serve water alongside the spirits in a separate glass, not in the same model.

Lead-free crystal glass can go in the dishwasher, but the fine cut holds limescale and on this range you notice that sooner than on smooth glass. Use soft water or a rinse aid and dry afterwards with a linen cloth. Do not put the glasses in the same rack as cutlery: one knock from a fork against the rim is enough to cause damage you will not polish out later.

The rest of the brand is under Nachtmann, including the modern ranges. If you like this classic style, also have a look at the vintage glasses from other brands. You can compare by size through long drink glasses and whiskey glasses, and for presenting spirits on the table there is a whiskey decanter alongside. That way you can lay a table without the ranges clashing with each other.