For more than 300 years—and 11 generations—the Riedel family has been in the glass business, creating top-notch glassware for the world’s wine drinkers. Georg Riedel, a 10th generation Riedel and CEO of Riedel Glas Austria, shares tips for choosing and caring for glassware. 

AFM: If someone can have only one piece of wine glassware, what should it be?
GR: Riedel develops varietal-specific glassware so this depends on what type of wine one enjoys most often. Is it a riesling? A Bordeaux? Pinot noir? Determine your favorite varietal and purchase the glass specific to that. There is no need to have a riesling glass if you never drink riesling.
AFM: How should one clean glassware?
GR: Hand-washing can be tricky if you own thin and unadorned crystal glassware. I’ve found that dishwashers, when properly loaded and tuned to the correct settings, work best. After years of experience and research, Riedel has determined that Miele dishwashers provide the best lifetime care for our glassware, and so Riedel exclusively recommends Miele dishwashers. Regardless of the type of glassware or dishwasher you are using, the following tips should serve you well:
• Never overcrowd your dishwasher, which may cause glassware to bang against other items. Glasses should not touch one another when loaded.
• Many contemporary dishwashers come with a stemware rack. If yours does, utilize it.
• Remove glassware after the final rinse cycle. If left in during the dry cycle, residue in the steam will redeposit on the glasses. If you don’t have a dishwasher and must wash by hand, follow these steps to maximize shine and minimize breakage:
• Start by washing the glass under warm water; detergent is not needed.
• Let the glass dry and drain by placing it upside down over linen.
• For extra shine, steam the glass over boiling water.
• Using two microfiber towels, hold the glass by the base to polish. Then using your left hand to cradle the bowl, polish with your right hand.
AFM: What is the best way to extend the longevity of one’s glassware?
GR: Riedel glassware is an investment that, if cared for properly, can last for generations. To ensure the longevity of your glassware, it is best to follow the proper washing instructions. Store your glassware on hanging racks or in a protected cabinet so that pets and everyday activity does not threaten their longevity.
AFM: If someone were shopping for a glassware gift, what would you recommend?
GR: When shopping for someone other than yourself, first take a look at his or her taste in wine. Is he new to the world of wine? Is she practically a sommelier? Glasses come at different price points, but as a general rule, spend approximately the same amount of money per glass as you do on your average bottle of wine. If your friend drinks wines in the $10-$25 range, consider Riedel’s stemless ‘O’ collection (about $9 per glass). If his or her tastes tend to rare vintages or specialty cuvees, consider my personal favorite, and Riedel’s benchmark, Vinum.