Riedel Tasting Demonstrates that Stemware Matters

The Carpe Vino dining rooms were bedazzled with 112 pieces of crystal stemware—four per place setting—in preparation for 28 wine enthusiasts who would decide for themselves if fine crystal stemware does make a difference in the appreciation and enjoyment of wine.

Chris Hillin of Riedel, The Wine Glass Company, flew in from Dallas, Texas, to host a symposium on Sunday that proved conclusively—in the noses of most participants—that using a wine stem engineered precisely for individual varietals clearly does make a difference.  The 90-minute program was genuinely informative and conclusive—even for the skeptics in the audience.

Cris Williamson of Southern Wine & Spirits, a key wine supplier for Carpe Vino—introduced the four wines selected for the tasting, which involved sampling the same wines in different vessels.

When the program concluded, guests enjoyed an amazing charcuterie display created by Chef Alexander, one that consumed the entire length of the Carpe Vino bar.

It has been at least a decade since we sponsored our last Riedel tasting, and based on the response from our latest event, we’ll likely invite the boys back again next year!