What are the differences when tasting wine from glass and tasting the same wine from crystal? Visual, aroma, or taste? Thanks for your expert opinion, Randy
Answer From Expert Roger Bohmrich MW
While the capacity and shape of the bowl can influence how we perceive aroma and, at least initially, taste, the glass itself - that is, the composition of the material - is not relevant. The term "crystal" tends to apply to glass containing varying percentages of lead, and many of the finest and most expensive glasses still do. The lead content can add a certain measure of visual depth and reflection to the glass itself. At the same time, lead does slowly leach from the glass into the liquid contents, which can be a concern if wine is left in a decanter for a long period. Today, a wine lover can find an extensive range of wine glasses and decanters which are lead-free. The designs of non-crystal wine glasses can be very attractive, and the prices are a fraction of glamorous crystal glassware. Look for brands such as Schott Zwiesel, Spiegelau, Ravenscroft and Riedel's Overture line. For a very modest cost, you can enhance your enjoyment by having two or three sets of glasses of different shapes and sizes.
