Maximilian Riedel, the 11th-generation CEO of Riedel, continues his family’s legacy of innovation in glassware, shaping the way wine is experienced around the world. For generations, RIEDEL has set the standard for fine glassware, proving that the right glass can transform the wine-drinking experience. In this exclusive interview with Hamptons Social, Riedel shares his expert insights on glassware, decanting, and how to elevate every sip.
How does the shape of a wine glass dramatically affect the tasting experience?
Riedel: The right glass can significantly enhance both the smell and taste of wine. Its shape and design are crucial in directing the wine across different areas of the palate, influencing how we experience its flavors. In fact, RIEDEL pioneered grape varietal-specific glassware and was the first in history to recognize that the shape of the glass itself could affect the taste, aroma, and overall experience of wine. Additionally, the size of the glass affects the evaporation of the wine, which can intensify the wine’s unique aromas, flavors, and fruity notes.
In the Hamptons, we drink a lot of rosé in the summer. Most people associate decanting with red wines, but you’ve advocated for decanting rosé. Why is this important, and what changes in the wine after decanting?
Riedel: Decanting is not just for red wines! Most wines, even champagne, benefit from being decanted prior to enjoying – it entirely changes the taste and experience. Decanting helps reveal more complexity within rosé as it helps release the wine’s aromas, enhance its fruity notes, and soften the bitterness. Decanting rosé will make it smoother and fruitier, making the wine much more approachable and enjoyable.
Beyond rosé, what wines benefit most from decanting, and are there any that should never be decanted?
Riedel: Traditionally, only mature red wines were decanted to both separate the wine from the sediment as well as aerate the wine. However, any wine that would benefit from aging can and should be decanted. That includes red wines of all ages, white wines, and even champagne. Decanted wine shows more expression on the palate and, for red wines, better integrates and smooths out tannins.
If someone is building a wine glass collection for their home, what are the essential glasses every wine lover should have?
Riedel: We offer different Tasting Sets. The Veloce Tasting Set is very feasible to start with; it contains 4 glasses from the RIEDEL Veloce series: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon. This way, you have a glass for the most popular grape varietals. If you live in a city or a space with more limited storage, our RIEDEL O Tumblers are amazing stemless options that take up less space in your home – I designed this collection after years spent in smaller apartments in New York and Jersey City!
Proper storage of wine glasses can help maintain their quality. What’s the best way to store wine glasses to prevent damage and preserve their clarity?
Riedel: Always store glasses upright and avoid storing them in kitchen cupboards, in a cellar, or near any items that are strong-smelling or that could splash onto them. Believe it or not, glassware can absorb and hold onto strong scents and interfere with your drinking experience. Most of our glasses are dishwasher safe, but if you prefer to hand wash, we recommend waiting until the morning after you drink and cleaning with warm water and not overly fragrant dish soap.
In the Hamptons, outdoor entertaining is a way of life, especially in the summer. What are your tips for choosing the right glassware for al fresco dining and making the experience elegant yet practical?
Riedel: Our stemless wine glasses, such as The O Wine Tumbler, are great for outdoor dining or a picnic during the summer as they eliminate any fear around stem damage.
To explore RIEDEL’s expertly crafted glassware and find the perfect glasses for your wine collection, visit www.riedel.com. You can also follow RIEDEL on social media for more tips on enhancing your wine experience.
