While looking at the fabulous culinary creations of French chef Jean-Luc Rabanel, I came across a stylish way to serve white or rose wine. I have never been a fan of the O Riedel wine glasses until I saw this picture.
O Riedel wine tumbler collection was all the rages a few years ago. But O Riedel defied the first rule of wine tasting. You must never touch the wine. That is why you got a stem.
I know, Italians defied it all the time by drinking wines in everyday glasses when they have a casual family gathering. At least, the O Riedel looks stylish. So why do I never use them before? I am something a purist.
But the way L’Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel used the O Riedel wine glass charms my design sense. I see the practicality of this method when the temperature rises. Set your table with each O Riedel wine tumbler in a bowl filled with crushed ice at your next outdoor parties. Your guests will be impressed by this fresh table setting.
You do not need to buy the O Riedel wine glasses either. You can rent them with the vase underneath; most good rental party companies carry them. Just know that the Riedel glasses cost more to rent than an average wine glass.
One good reason to buy them is that the lead-free O Riedel wine tumblers are dishwasher safe. Since they will fit in any dishwasher, it will take you less time to clean up once the party is over. For a casual gathering, they still look hip and they are fun.
The price range for the non lead machine-blown glass series is half the price of Riedel Vinum glasses. Wine Enthusiast and Cooking.com both sell the set of 2 Riedel “O” Chardonnay Wine Tumblers for $16 USD. Other models are sold for $20 USD.
About French chef Jean-Luc Rabanel
He owns a restaurant and a cooking school in Arles in France. Dedicated to organic ingredients, a local farmer cultivates especially for him 100 varieties of each vegetable to obtain an infinite palette of textures and flavors. His latest restaurant L’Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel made the Condé Nast Travelever Hot List Table 2007.
More info: O Riedel glass series on Riedel Web site
Restaurant: L’Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel
Link : Condé Nast Travelever Hot List Table 2007
Photo credit: shot was taken for April-May issue of Cote Sud magazine
Rob Poitras
June 25, 2007 at 17:43Riedel glasses also bring out more aroma and flavor of the wine because of the shape of the curve. Crate & Barrel also sell stemless wine tumblers if you don’t want to spend the money on Riedel.
At Home with kim vallee
June 25, 2007 at 18:00Rob, thanks for the useful information. I checked at Crate & Barrel, one stemless wine glass is only $1.95. That is cheaper than renting a Riedel. I suggest you choose the 17 oz model. It is a nicer shape. If the budget is an issue, this is a viable option.
At Home with kim vallee
July 3, 2007 at 15:29The highs and lows of serving drinks when throwing a party