As winter and the festive season approach, the art of entertaining takes on a whole new meaning. With temperatures plummeting and more and more people enjoying a drink together, it's essential to pay attention to the elegance of the objects on our tables.
This month, Cristallerie de Montbronn plunges you into the fascinating world of different glass shapes, highlighting their fundamental role in the art of tasting. The traditional stemmed glass, the effervescent champagne cup, the slender highball glass... each of our pieces embodies a unique and sublime function for the elixirs for which it is destined. From the refinement of its silhouette to the balance of its proportions, each detail reveals a subtle alchemy between form and use: the height of the stem, the width of the opening, or the ability to preserve the aromas: these are all criteria that transform a simple container into a jewel box carefully designed to magnify the beverage it houses. Behind this crystal object lies a science of harmony, where beauty combines with functionality to offer an unparalleled sensory experience.
The stemmed glass
Since the dawn of history, the stemmed glass has been a symbol of elegance and refinement, transcending the ages to become part of the art of living. Born in the glittering glass furnaces of Antiquity, the stemmed glass has slowly evolved, while preserving its essence: magnifying the nectar it contains, while enhancing the experience of those who place it to their lips.
It was in Venice, in the heart of the 16th century, that the stemmed glass underwent a sublime metamorphosis, becoming a work of art in its own right. Under the skilful hands of Murano's master glassmakers, each chalice becomes a declaration of luxury: perfect curves, delicate patterns and crystalline transparency evoke the calm waters of the lagoons. More than just containers, these creations reflect the splendour of royal banquets and sumptuous feasts at European courts.
But what role does the stem of the glass play in the subtle art of wine tasting? Firstly, it prevents the glass from being held in the hand, thus preserving the ideal temperature of the wine.
Less obvious but just as essential, the foot gives perfect control of the glass, making the delicate rotation that aerates the wine fluid and graceful. This almost choreographic movement releases the wine's most subtle aromas, transforming the simple act of tasting into a complete sensory experience.
The champagne glass
The champagne glass, with its vintage look and flared shape, is an iconic glass from the 1920s, often associated with the golden age of glamorous parties and silent films. Originally designed for champagne, it is now also used for elegant cocktails such as the Daiquiri or Sidecar.
Its wide mouth allows the aromas to be released, although it doesn't retain the bubbles as long as a flute. With its retro charm and graceful silhouette, the coupe remains a timeless symbol of celebration and refinement.
The martini glass
An icon of elegance and glamour, the martini glass first appeared in the early 20th century with the popularity of the eponymous cocktail. Its iconic inverted cone shape on a slender stem is designed to keep cocktails chilled while preserving their delicate aromas.
Ideal for classic creations such as the Dry Martini or Cosmopolitan, it enhances the clarity and purity of mixes without excessive dilution. A symbol of sophistication, it embodies the art of mixology in all its splendour.
The Old-fashioned
Also known as a rocks glass or simply a whisky glass, the iconic and timeless Old Fashioned glass takes its name from the cocktail of the same name, created in the early 19th century.
Recognisable by its low, robust silhouette, it is designed for short, powerful cocktails, often served on a large ice cube. Ideal for classics such as its eponymous cocktail or the Negroni, it brings out the concentrated aromas while offering a comfortable grip. This glass is also a symbol of timeless elegance, celebrating the art of the cocktail with simplicity and refinement.
The highball tumbler
The highball tumbler first appeared at the end of the 19th century and has become a staple of long cocktails. With its slender, cylindrical shape, it is designed to hold an alcoholic base, plenty of ice, and a large dose of mixer such as soda or sparkling water.Ideal for iconic drinks such as Gin Tonic, it provides balanced dilution while preserving flavour and bubbles. This timeless classic combines simplicity, functionality and elegance, making it a pillar of the art of mixology.
The flute
The flute, a symbol of elegance and festivity, is the ideal glass for enjoying champagne and other sparkling wines. Its slender, narrow silhouette is designed to preserve the bubbles, slowing their dissipation while highlighting their delicate rise. This design also concentrates the aromas for a refined tasting experience. A must-have for special occasions, the flute embodies sophistication and enhances every moment of celebration.
In this article, we have explored the world of glass shapes, from their prestigious origins to their many refined uses. We hope this information will help you make an informed choice and find the perfect glass to enhance your moments of sharing, whether it's an intimate dinner or a grand celebration.
In the meantime, we wish you a wonderful month of November, filled with warmth and conviviality. Stay tuned, because we've got some great surprises in store for you over the festive period!
