Riedel Veloce Syrah / Shiraz Glasses (Pair)
Riedel Veloce Syrah / Shiraz Glasses (Pair)
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Riedel Veloce Syrah / Shiraz Glass
The Riedel Veloce Syrah / Shiraz glass looks and feels handmade, yet it's produced by machine using cutting-edge technology that guarantees precise varietal-specific design. This pair of glasses features a diamond-shaped bowl crafted from extremely thin crystal, sized generously for full-bodied reds, combined with a narrow, tall stem that creates elegant proportions. The grape variety is etched on the base for easy identification when building a varietal-specific collection.
Wine enthusiasts worldwide understand that Riedel develops glasses in different shapes and sizes for specific grape varieties, and only advanced machine production can deliver such precise design language in harmony with each varietal's profile. The Veloce (Italian for "fast") collection represents Riedel's commitment to making this precision accessible - delivering the appearance and performance of handcrafted glass through technology that ensures consistency across every piece.
Key features of the Riedel Veloce Syrah / Shiraz glass (pair):
- Varietal-specific design: Diamond-shaped bowl specifically developed to unite Old World restraint with New World opulence, handling wines of both power and finesse
- Extremely thin crystal: Delicate wall thickness creates an elegant drinking experience whilst the diamond shape provides structural strength
- Generous capacity: 720ml bowl volume gives full-bodied Syrah and Shiraz room to breathe, softening tannins and releasing dark fruit and spice aromatics
- Precise machine production: Cutting-edge technology guarantees exact bowl geometry and rim diameter for consistent varietal-specific performance
- Elegant proportions: Narrow, tall stem (247mm height) creates visual impact and balanced handling
- Convenient identification: Grape variety etched on base makes glass selection effortless
- Handmade appearance: Looks and feels handcrafted whilst benefiting from machine precision and consistency
- Dishwasher safe: Practical for regular use without hand-washing requirements
- Comprehensive compatibility: Suits Old World Syrah from the Northern Rhône, New World Shiraz from Australia, and other full-bodied reds including Malbec, Grenache and Tempranillo
This pair of glasses suits wine enthusiasts who appreciate structured, full-bodied reds where tannin, dark fruit and spice are key characteristics. The diamond-shaped bowl reveals the peppery, savoury edge of Northern Rhône Syrah as readily as the ripe, jammy fruit of a Barossa Shiraz, whilst giving both the space they need to open up in the glass.
What Customers Ask About Riedel Veloce Syrah / Shiraz Glass
Which Syrah and Shiraz styles work best in this glass?
Riedel designed this glass to unite Old World restraint with New World opulence, so it handles the full stylistic range of the grape. That includes peppery, savoury Northern Rhône Syrah from appellations like Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie, through to riper, more concentrated New World Shiraz from regions such as the Barossa Valley. The 720ml diamond-shaped bowl gives both styles the room they need to release their aromatics, whether that's white pepper and cured meat or dark, jammy fruit. It also suits other full-bodied reds including Malbec, Grenache and Tempranillo.
How does the diamond shape benefit Syrah and Shiraz specifically?
The diamond-shaped bowl creates specific conditions for full-bodied, tannic red wines. The wide mid-section gives the wine a large surface area to interact with air, softening tannins and helping dark fruit, spice and pepper aromatics develop as you swirl. The tapered top then concentrates those aromatics before they reach your nose. The rim diameter and curvature direct wine to the areas of your palate that emphasise fruit and structure whilst tempering any harshness from tannin or alcohol. The generous 720ml capacity gives the wine ample room to open up, which matters more for Syrah and Shiraz than for lighter-bodied reds.
What makes machine production better than handmade for this glass?
Riedel's varietal-specific philosophy requires exact consistency in bowl geometry and rim diameter, as these factors determine how wine flows to your palate and which characteristics you perceive. Handmade glasses inevitably vary slightly between pieces, whilst cutting-edge machine production ensures every glass performs identically. The advanced technology Riedel developed creates extremely thin crystal with the appearance and feel of handcrafted glass, but with precision that's impossible to achieve through hand-blowing. This consistency is crucial when serving guests or comparing wines side-by-side.
Is this glass too delicate for regular use?
Despite the extremely thin crystal construction, the diamond shape provides structural strength that makes these glasses more durable than their delicate appearance suggests. The dishwasher-safe designation confirms they can handle regular use and cleaning. However, the narrow, tall stem requires careful handling, and the large 720ml bowl needs adequate spacing in the dishwasher. These glasses are designed for wine enthusiasts who appreciate refined glassware and are willing to handle them with appropriate care.
Will this glass work for other red wines besides Syrah and Shiraz?
The Veloce Syrah / Shiraz glass is designed for full-bodied, structured reds where tannin, dark fruit and spice are prominent. Beyond Syrah and Shiraz, it suits other full-bodied varieties such as Malbec, Grenache, Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon-based blends. For lighter-bodied, more delicate reds like Pinot Noir or Gamay, you'll get better results from a glass designed for those styles, where a different bowl shape emphasises freshness over structure.
Understanding the Veloce Philosophy
The name "Veloce" - Italian for "fast" - reflects Riedel's goal of making precision glassware more accessible through advanced production technology. Traditional handmade glass production is slow and creates variations between pieces that can affect wine perception. By developing cutting-edge machine technology capable of producing extremely thin crystal with exact specifications, Veloce delivers the performance and appearance of handcrafted glass at a faster pace and more consistent quality.
This approach represents a fundamental shift in how we think about glassware quality. For decades, "handmade" implied superior quality, but Riedel recognised that varietal-specific glassware requires precision that handcrafting cannot guarantee. The Veloce collection proves that advanced technology, thoughtfully applied, can exceed what's possible through traditional methods - creating glasses that look and feel handmade whilst performing with the consistency that serious wine appreciation demands.
The etched grape variety on each glass's base reinforces the educational aspect of varietal-specific glassware. Rather than requiring expertise to identify which shape suits which wine, the marking provides immediate clarity - making it easier to build and use a comprehensive collection whilst understanding how different shapes affect wine perception.
Syrah and Shiraz: Why Glass Shape Matters
Syrah and Shiraz are the same grape grown under two names, and the styles they produce span a wide spectrum. Northern Rhône Syrah, from appellations like Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie and Cornas, tends towards restraint: pepper, olive, violet and cured meat notes alongside firm tannin and savoury structure. New World Shiraz, particularly from Australia's Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, leans towards opulence: riper dark fruit, chocolate and spice, often with more obvious oak. A glass built for this grape needs to do justice to both ends of that spectrum.
The Veloce Syrah / Shiraz glass's diamond shape addresses these characteristics directly. The generous 720ml capacity gives the wine a large surface area for aeration, which matters more here than for most other reds - Syrah and Shiraz can be tightly wound on opening, and the bowl's volume helps them unwind. The wider mid-section allows tannins to soften and integrate whilst the tapered top concentrates the aromatics, whether that's white pepper and garrigue or blackberry and clove.
Premium Northern Rhône Syrah and single-vineyard Barossa Shiraz - the kind of bottle you might decant and serve for a special occasion - reward the same attention to glassware as any fine Bordeaux or Burgundy. When you're pouring a wine chosen for its structure and complexity, the right glass ensures you perceive the tannin, fruit and spice in balance rather than any one element dominating. The Veloce Syrah / Shiraz glass reveals these nuances rather than masking them.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Dishwasher Care: Veloce glasses are dishwasher safe despite their extremely thin crystal construction. Use a gentle cycle at maximum 55°C and space glasses so they don't touch each other or other items. The narrow, tall stem (247mm height) and large 720ml bowl require particularly careful placement in the dishwasher - secure glasses in the upper rack where they won't knock against other items or the dishwasher spray arm. Avoid heavily abrasive or lemon-scented detergents which can cloud crystal over time. Remove promptly 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. The extremely thin crystal and narrow stem require gentle handling - support the bowl from underneath with one hand whilst washing the interior with a soft cloth or sponge in the other. Full-bodied reds can leave colour behind, so rinse promptly after use rather than letting the wine sit in the glass. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately with a lint-free cloth.
Polishing: Use a microfibre or linen cloth. Hold the bowl firmly and polish it in circular motions. For the tall stem, support it gently whilst polishing to avoid stress. For stubborn water spots or any residual wine colour, add a small amount of white vinegar to rinse water.
Storage: Store glasses upright, never stacked or rim-down. The tall 247mm height and wide 720ml bowl require adequate vertical cupboard space. This prevents chipping and allows air circulation to prevent musty odours. Ensure glasses are completely dry before storing to prevent cloudiness or odours developing.
Handling: Always hold Veloce Syrah / Shiraz glasses by the base rather than the stem when filled, as the narrow stem combined with the 720ml capacity creates a higher centre of gravity. The extremely thin crystal can transmit hand warmth to wine more readily than thicker glass, so minimise contact with the bowl during service.
Serving Temperature: Syrah and Shiraz show best at 16-18°C, cooler than room temperature but noticeably warmer than white wine. If the wine feels closed or the tannins seem tight, decanting for 30-60 minutes before serving can help, particularly for younger, more structured examples. The diamond-shaped bowl continues that opening-up process as you drink.
Pouring: Fill to about one-quarter to one-third capacity (180-240ml) rather than filling generously - the large 720ml bowl is there for swirling and aeration, not for holding a full measure. Giving the wine plenty of headroom is what allows tannins to soften and aromatics to develop fully.
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 understand how varietal-specific glassware like the Veloce Syrah / Shiraz glass reveals the characteristics that make structured, full-bodied reds special.
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 Veloce glasses regularly rather than reserving them only for special occasions.
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does delivery take?
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses typically takes 3-5 working days and is free for orders over £49. 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, with particular care taken for delicate pieces like the Veloce collection.
Can I return the glasses if I don't like them after using them?
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, particularly important for thin crystal glassware.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
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.
Are Riedel glasses marked with the brand name?
Authentic Riedel glasses typically feature subtle branding etched into the base. The Veloce collection carries the Riedel mark plus the grape variety etched on the base (Syrah / Shiraz for this glass), confirming authenticity and making glass selection easy. All glasses purchased from The Riedel Shop are genuine Riedel products sourced directly from the manufacturer.
Do you offer gift packaging?
Riedel Veloce glasses come in Riedel's standard packaging, which is suitable for gifting and provides appropriate protection for the extremely thin crystal. These make excellent gifts for Syrah, Shiraz and full-bodied red wine enthusiasts.
Can I buy additional glasses to match this pair?
Yes, the Veloce collection is part of Riedel's ongoing range. Machine production with cutting-edge technology ensures new glasses will match your existing pair in both size and quality, allowing you to expand your collection as needed.
How does this compare to other Riedel Syrah / Shiraz glasses?
The Veloce Syrah / Shiraz glass sits between Vinum and the ultra-thin Veritas or Superleggero collections. It features extremely thin crystal with a diamond-shaped bowl and elegant proportions, more refined than Vinum but with dishwasher-safe practicality that Veritas and Superleggero lack for regular use. The cutting-edge machine production delivers consistent quality at an accessible price point. If you want elegant design with practical convenience, Veloce excels; for maximum delicacy, consider Veritas or Superleggero; for maximum durability and value, consider Vinum.
What makes this glass different from a universal red wine glass?
The Veloce Syrah / Shiraz glass is specifically designed for full-bodied, structured red wines. The 720ml diamond-shaped bowl, rim diameter, and overall geometry are calibrated to soften tannin and release the dark fruit, pepper and spice notes characteristic of Syrah and Shiraz. Universal glasses offer convenience but compromise on varietal-specific performance. For premium Northern Rhône Syrah or a well-made single-vineyard Shiraz where you've invested in quality, the specific design reveals structure and complexity that universal glasses mask.
Is the narrow stem a practical concern?
The narrow, tall stem creates elegant proportions but requires slightly more care than glasses with thicker stems, particularly given the large 720ml bowl above it. Always hold the glass by the base when filled rather than gripping the stem. In the dishwasher, ensure adequate spacing and secure placement. The stem's design serves both aesthetic and functional purposes - keeping your hand away from the bowl to avoid warming the wine whilst creating the refined appearance characteristic of the Veloce collection. With appropriate care, the stem is perfectly practical for regular use.
Why is this sold as a pair rather than individually?
Riedel typically packages fine crystal glasses in pairs to ensure consistent quality and matching. A pair works well for couples or intimate wine appreciation, and provides the foundation for building a varietal-specific collection. If you need additional glasses for entertaining, you can purchase multiple pairs. The pair format also makes gifting straightforward - one pair is a complete, thoughtful gift for wine enthusiasts.
The Art and Science of Glass Design
Riedel's approach to varietal-specific glassware combines centuries of glassmaking tradition with modern scientific understanding of sensory perception. The diamond shape of the Veloce Syrah / Shiraz glass isn't arbitrary - it's the result of extensive testing and refinement to determine which bowl geometry optimally presents full-bodied, tannic red wines.
Bowl shape affects three critical factors: how aromatics collect and concentrate, how wine flows to different areas of your palate, and how much surface area the wine has for aeration. The generous 720ml capacity provides ample volume for Syrah and Shiraz to open up, particularly important for wines that can be tightly closed on first pour. The diamond shape's wide mid-section maximises oxygen contact whilst the tapered top concentrates aromatics. The rim diameter and curvature direct wine flow to emphasise fruit and structure whilst tempering tannin and any heat from alcohol.
The cutting-edge machine technology that produces Veloce glasses guarantees these carefully calculated specifications are exact in every piece. This precision transforms varietal-specific glassware from interesting concept to reliable performance tool - ensuring that when you pour a peppery Northern Rhône Syrah or a rich Barossa Shiraz into a Veloce glass, you'll perceive the characteristics the winemaker intended and the terroir expressed, consistently, every time.
