Riedel Vinum Syrah/Shiraz Glasses
The Riedel Vinum Syrah/Shiraz glasses were developed between 1993 and 1995 through tastings in the major Syrah-growing regions, where influential winemakers contributed their expertise on how best to showcase their wines. Available in sets of 2, 4, 6, or 8 glasses, the 690ml capacity and carefully designed bowl shape highlight the tannins whilst offering perfect balance with the overwhelmingly concentrated fruit characteristic of these wines. The shape manages the intense, rich blackberry aromas and mouthfilling fruit that define both French Syrah and Australian Shiraz.
These glasses work equally well for wines displaying deep purple, almost inky colours with massive structure and long, sweet finishes. The generous bowl provides ample room for these powerful wines to breathe whilst directing them to areas of the palate that emphasise both fruit concentration and tannic structure. Beyond Syrah and Shiraz, this shape also excels with Rioja, Grenache-based blends, and other full-bodied reds that benefit from balancing tannins with fruit intensity.
Key features of the Vinum Syrah/Shiraz glass:
- Expert-designed shape: Developed with influential winemakers from major Syrah regions to showcase the variety's characteristics
- Generous capacity: The 690ml bowl provides ample room for powerful wines to breathe and express their complexity
- Tannin management: Shape balances firm tannins with concentrated fruit, preventing either element from dominating
- Fine crystal construction: Machine-blown in Bavaria, Germany, delivering clarity and durability
- Impressive height: 236mm height creates elegant presentation whilst fitting in most cupboards
- Dishwasher safe: Machine washable at gentle temperatures, though handwashing extends longevity
- Flexible pack options: Set of 2 (ideal for couples), Set of 4 (perfect for small gatherings), Set of 6 (ready for dinner parties), or Set of 8 (excellent value for serious collectors)
These glasses suit enthusiasts of powerful red wines who appreciate Syrah, Shiraz, and Rioja, and want stemware that manages tannins whilst showcasing the concentrated fruit and complexity these wines offer.
What Customers Ask About Riedel Vinum Syrah/Shiraz Glasses
Riedel designed this glass specifically for Syrah, Shiraz, and Rioja, but it works brilliantly with any full-bodied red wine that combines powerful tannins with concentrated fruit. This includes Grenache-based blends, Mourvèdre, Malbec, and other wines with similar structure. The generous bowl balances tannins with fruit intensity, making it ideal for wines that need both breathing room and structural support. If you primarily drink lighter reds like Pinot Noir, consider the dedicated Pinot Noir glass instead.
The set of 2 suits couples or those starting their collection. The set of 4 provides better value per glass and covers most small gatherings. The set of 6 ensures you have enough for dinner parties without mixing glass styles, plus spares if breakages occur. The set of 8 offers the best per-glass value and is ideal if you regularly serve powerful red wines or want to build a complete collection. Consider how often you pour Syrah, Shiraz, or similar wines – the 4-pack offers a good balance between value and versatility for most households, whilst the 8-pack suits serious red wine enthusiasts.
The Syrah/Shiraz glass (690ml) has a larger bowl than the Bordeaux glass (610ml) and is designed to balance intense tannins with concentrated fruit characteristics. The Bordeaux glass works better for Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends, which have different tannin profiles and aromatic characteristics. If you drink both styles, the Syrah/Shiraz glass handles more powerful, fruit-forward wines, whilst the Bordeaux glass suits more structured, tannic blends.
Yes – the 690ml capacity is one of the larger bowls in the Vinum collection, specifically chosen to give powerful wines like Syrah and Shiraz the breathing room they need. For a standard 150-175ml pour, you'll have substantial headspace for swirling and aerating. These wines benefit from generous oxygen exposure to soften tannins and open up their complex aromatics.
Yes, Riedel Vinum glasses are dishwasher safe when used on a gentle cycle at maximum 55°C. Space glasses so they don't touch during the cycle, and avoid lemon-scented or highly abrasive detergents which can cloud crystal over time. Many customers choose to handwash these glasses to preserve their pristine clarity for years to come.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Dishwasher Care: Whilst dishwasher safe, use a gentle cycle at maximum 55°C. Space glasses so they don't touch during the wash cycle. Avoid lemon-scented or highly abrasive detergents which can cloud crystal over time. Remove promptly after the cycle and allow to air dry with the door open to prevent water spots.
Handwashing: Use warm (not hot) water with mild detergent. Hold glasses by the base, never twist the bowl whilst holding the stem. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately with a lint-free cloth to prevent water marks.
Polishing: Use a microfibre or linen cloth for best results. Never hold both the base and bowl at once – this can snap stems. For the bowl: hold the glass under the bowl with one cloth while polishing with another. For the base: hold it firmly in one hand while polishing with the other. For stubborn water spots, add a small amount of white vinegar to your rinse water before drying.
Storage: Store glasses upright, never stacked or rim-down. This prevents chipping of the delicate rim and allows air circulation to prevent musty odours developing. If storing the set of 6 or 8, consider using shelf dividers to maintain spacing between glasses.
Why Buy From The Riedel Shop?
Since establishing The Riedel Shop, we've specialised in Riedel's innovative glassware, building expertise in helping customers select the right glasses for their wine preferences. We're not just retailers – we're enthusiasts who understand how the right glass transforms the wine-drinking experience.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Breakage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
We believe you shouldn't have to take a risk when purchasing glassware. Our Half-Price Replacement policy covers accidental breakage for 2 years from purchase with proof of purchase, giving you confidence to use your glasses rather than keeping them in a cupboard. This guarantee applies to individual glasses from any pack size.
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page
Frequently Asked Questions
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses typically takes 3-5 working days. Next day delivery may be available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. We pack all glassware carefully with protective packaging to ensure safe arrival.
We offer a no quibble return guarantee that allows you to return goods even after use. The items must be in a resaleable condition and in their original packaging. Please wrap or box items appropriately for transit to avoid damage to goods or boxes.
If you accidentally break a glass within 2 years of purchase, we'll replace it at half the current retail price. You'll need proof of purchase (receipt, bank statement, or order confirmation if purchased online) and evidence of the breakage (a photo is fine). We log your purchase at point of sale, or online orders are automatically recorded in our system. This applies whether you purchased a set of 2, 4, 6, or 8.
Riedel typically prices larger sets to offer better value per glass. The exact pricing is shown when you select your preferred variant. If you know you'll need multiple glasses for entertaining or regularly serve powerful red wines, the 4-pack, 6-pack, or 8-pack typically provides cost savings compared to buying multiple sets of 2.
Yes, these glasses work with Cabernet Sauvignon, though the dedicated Bordeaux glass is specifically optimised for Cabernet and Merlot blends. The Syrah/Shiraz glass has a slightly larger bowl that works better for fruit-forward, powerful wines, whilst the Bordeaux glass is designed for more structured, tannic blends. Both are excellent choices – the difference comes down to subtle variations in how they deliver the wine to your palate.
Riedel Vinum glasses are dishwasher safe, but regular machine washing can gradually reduce clarity compared to handwashing. Use a gentle cycle, avoid harsh detergents, and ensure glasses don't touch during washing. Many customers alternate between dishwasher and handwashing to balance convenience with longevity.
Authentic Riedel glasses typically feature subtle branding etched into the base. The Vinum collection glasses carry the Riedel mark, confirming authenticity. All glasses purchased from The Riedel Shop are genuine Riedel products sourced directly from the factory.
Riedel Vinum Syrah/Shiraz glasses are sold in sets of 2, 4, 6, or 8. For replacement of broken glasses, our Half-Price Replacement guarantee provides the most cost-effective solution within 2 years of purchase. Contact us directly to discuss your specific needs.
Riedel Vinum glasses come in Riedel's standard packaging, which is suitable for gifting.
Related Reading
Explore our article Shiraz: The Grape That Conquered the World to understand more about this powerful variety and how glass shape enhances your tasting experience.
Care & Use
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Dishwasher safe. (handmade decanters excepted)
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Ideally, use soft water to avoid stains.
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Avoid using glass or metal to avoid scratches.
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Use white vinegar to remove stains.
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If washing by hand, use warm water and detergent.
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Do not hold glasses by the base when polishing.