Zwiesel Glas The First

The choice within The First is primarily a choice between three grape varieties. The 95.5 cl Burgundy glass has the largest bowl, designed for Pinot Noir and Nebbiolo, wines with lots of aroma and little tannin. The 52.5 cl Chardonnay glass is smaller and keeps white wine at the right temperature for longer. The 36.6 cl champagne glass has a nucleation point in the base, an etched spot where the bubbles originate. Everything is supplied in sets of six. For a wider selection, see red wine glasses and white wine glasses.

Fill the Burgundy glass to its widest point, about a quarter full, and gently swirl it so the wine rises along the sides. With a Chardonnay glass, you can pour a little higher, up to one-third full. Pour champagne in two stages: first a little against the sloping side, then wait for the foam to settle before topping it up. For a mimosa or a Kir Royale this is exactly the shape in which the bubbles stay around the longest.

This range is made of Tritan crystal glass, which makes the most difference exactly where a wine glass is weakest: the join between bowl and stem. Dishwasher safe, but place the glasses upright and do not let the bowls touch. The large burgundy bowls often will not fit a standard rack. Wash those by hand and support the bowl as you do, because turning the bowl while you hold the foot is the classic way to snap a stem.

If you’re looking for bubbles in a different shape, take a look at the champagne glasses , from flute to coupe. The brand’s other products can be found under Zwiesel Glas, not to be confused with Schott Zwiesel. And if you want to let a young red wine breathe before serving it, one of the decanters will serve you better than an even larger glass. If you mainly drink white wine, the Chardonnay glass is the one you’ll reach for most often.