Are Riedel Glasses Good Value For Money?
Riedel is one of the most respected names in glassware, with a history that dates back to 1756. Founded in Bohemia (now part of the Czech Republic), the brand has been passed down through generations of the Riedel family. Today, based in Austria, Riedel is celebrated around the world for revolutionising how we experience wine.
Their claim to fame? Being the first company to design wine glasses shaped specifically to enhance the characteristics of different grape varieties. Riedel's innovation isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about function. Their wine glasses are the result of decades of research into how the shape of a glass influences the way wine tastes, smells, and feels.
Are Riedel Glasses Good Value for Money?
For many, spending upwards of £50 on a set of wine glasses may feel extravagant, but when it comes to Riedel, the price reflects more than just brand prestige. Riedel glasses are an investment in your drinking experience.
Each glass is designed with precision engineering to accentuate the best features of specific wine types. For example, their Pinot Noir glasses have a wider bowl to allow the bouquet of the wine to open up, while a Riesling glass is narrower to preserve the delicate aromas. This attention to detail can dramatically elevate how a wine tastes, even to casual drinkers.
Another reason they represent good value is their balance of quality and durability. While incredibly lightweight and elegant, many Riedel collections are dishwasher safe and designed for regular use, not just special occasions. The glasses are crafted from high-quality crystal and undergo strict quality control, so you're getting a product that’s both beautiful and practical.
What’s more, Riedel has ranges to suit every level of enthusiast. Whether you're a casual wine lover or a serious connoisseur, there’s a glass, and a price point, for you. Compared to the cost of premium wine, a proper glass that helps you enjoy it to the fullest is often a relatively small additional investment that makes a noticeable difference.
Better Value in Riedel Gift Sets
If you’re looking for the best value, Riedel gift sets are a smart choice. These special bundles include multiple glasses at a reduced price compared to buying them individually. Many sets are tailored to specific types of wine, for example, a pair of Bordeaux glasses, or a mixed set for reds, whites and champagne.
These curated collections offer an ideal way to start or expand your Riedel collection. They also make exceptional gifts for wine lovers, with elegant packaging and a strong sense of luxury.
Many of our gift sets also come with a free gift of an additional glass, offering you the highest value for money possible.
What Is the Difference Between Riedel Vinum and Veritas?
Two of Riedel’s most popular ranges are Vinum and Veritas, and while they may look similar at first glance, there are some important distinctions:
Introduced in 1986, Vinum was the first machine-made glassware to be based on the brand’s grape varietal-specific concept. The glasses are slightly heavier and thicker, offering great durability while still maintaining elegant proportions. Vinum glasses are ideal for everyday use or for those who want quality glassware without being overly delicate.
Launched in 2014, Veritas glasses are machine-blown but mimic the finesse of handmade glass. They are lighter, taller, and thinner than Vinum, with the same varietal-specific shapes. Veritas glasses are perfect for wine lovers who appreciate ultra-fine glassware with a handcrafted feel, but at a lower cost than Riedel’s handmade Sommelier range.
Both ranges are excellent, but the choice between them often comes down to personal preference: Vinum for durability and everyday elegance, Veritas for a more refined, ultra-light experience.
Riedel glasses are more than just wine glasses, they are the product of centuries of craftsmanship and scientific design. While they may carry a higher price tag than basic glassware, they deliver genuine value through enhanced tasting experiences, exceptional quality and long-lasting beauty. Whether you choose the sturdy Vinum or the elegant Veritas, or opt for a curated gift set, Riedel offers both performance and prestige in every pour.