Riedel Veloce Chardonnay Glasses (Pair)
Riedel Veloce Chardonnay Glasses (Pair)
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Riedel Veloce Chardonnay Glass
The Riedel Veloce Chardonnay 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, 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 Chardonnay glass (pair):
- Varietal-specific design: Diamond-shaped bowl specifically developed for Chardonnay and white Burgundy to enhance characteristic fruit, texture, and mineral notes
- Extremely thin crystal: Delicate wall thickness creates an elegant drinking experience whilst the diamond shape provides structural strength
- Generous capacity: 690ml bowl volume allows full-bodied Chardonnay to express its complexity, texture, and aromatic richness
- 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: Perfect for white Burgundy, Meursault, Montrachet, New World Chardonnay, and Pouilly-Fuissé
This pair of glasses suits wine enthusiasts who appreciate full-bodied Chardonnay and white Burgundy wines where texture, complexity, and oak integration are key characteristics. The diamond-shaped bowl reveals the rich, layered qualities that make premium Chardonnay distinctive whilst maintaining the freshness and minerality that balance these wines.
What Customers Ask About Riedel Veloce Chardonnay Glass
Which Chardonnay styles work best in this glass?
Riedel designed this glass for full-bodied Chardonnay styles where texture, richness, and complexity are prominent. It works excellently with oaked Chardonnay, white Burgundy from appellations like Meursault and Montrachet, New World Chardonnay with barrel fermentation, and Pouilly-Fuissé. The 690ml diamond-shaped bowl allows these wines to express their creamy texture, oak integration, and layered fruit characteristics. For leaner, mineral-driven Chardonnay styles like Chablis, you may prefer a different shape, though this glass will still work well.
How does the diamond shape benefit Chardonnay specifically?
The diamond-shaped bowl creates specific conditions for full-bodied white wines. The wider mid-section allows aromatic compounds to develop and collect, whilst the tapered top concentrates these aromatics before they reach your nose. The shape also influences how wine flows to your palate - directing it to areas that emphasise Chardonnay's rich fruit characteristics and creamy texture whilst maintaining perception of freshness and acidity. The generous 690ml capacity provides room for the wine to breathe, revealing the complexity that defines premium Chardonnay.
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 - hold glasses by the base rather than the stem when filled, and ensure 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 white wines besides Chardonnay?
The Veloce Chardonnay glass is specifically designed for full-bodied white wines with rich texture and complexity. Beyond Chardonnay and white Burgundy, it may work well with other fuller-bodied whites like oaked Viognier, rich Chenin Blanc, or barrel-fermented white Rhône blends. For crisp, mineral-driven whites like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Riesling, you'll achieve better results with glasses designed for those styles. The 690ml capacity and diamond shape are optimised for wines where texture and richness are defining characteristics.
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.
Chardonnay and White Burgundy: Why Glass Shape Matters
Chardonnay presents unique challenges for glassware design. The grape itself is relatively neutral, serving as a canvas for winemaking decisions - oak treatment, malolactic fermentation, lees contact, and ageing all dramatically affect the wine's character. Full-bodied Chardonnay styles develop rich, complex profiles with buttery texture, vanilla and toast notes from oak, and layered fruit characteristics ranging from citrus to tropical to stone fruit.
The Veloce Chardonnay glass's diamond shape addresses these characteristics specifically. The generous 690ml capacity provides room for complex aromatics to develop and integrate. The wider mid-section allows the wine to breathe, revealing how oak and fruit interact. The tapered top concentrates these aromatics whilst the rim diameter directs wine to areas of your palate that emphasise Chardonnay's rich texture and fruit characteristics whilst maintaining freshness perception.
White Burgundy - particularly from prestigious appellations like Meursault, Montrachet, Puligny-Montrachet, and Chassagne-Montrachet - represents Chardonnay at its most refined and expensive. When you're investing £50, £100, or more in a bottle, the right glass ensures you perceive the complexity, minerality, and subtle distinctions that justify the price. The Veloce Chardonnay 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) requires 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. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately with a lint-free cloth.
Polishing: Use a microfibre or linen cloth. Hold the base firmly and polish the bowl in circular motions. For the narrow stem, support it gently to avoid applying stress. The thin crystal shows water spots easily, so immediate drying or polishing is recommended. For stubborn spots, add a small amount of white vinegar to rinse water.
Storage: Store glasses upright, never stacked or rim-down. The tall 247mm height requires 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 Chardonnay glasses by the base rather than the stem when filled, as the narrow stem combined with the 690ml 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: Chardonnay and white Burgundy show best at 10-13°C. Consider chilling glasses in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before use, or rinse with cold water and dry. The diamond-shaped bowl allows wine to warm gradually to optimal drinking temperature as you enjoy it.
Pouring: Fill to about one-third to half capacity (230-345ml) to allow room for swirling and aroma development. The generous 690ml capacity means you don't need to fill the glass completely - giving the wine space enhances the aromatics and allows you to appreciate Chardonnay's complexity.
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 Chardonnay glass reveals the characteristics that make premium white wines 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 (Chardonnay 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 Chardonnay and white Burgundy 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 perfectly in both size and quality, allowing you to expand your collection as needed.
How does this compare to other Riedel Chardonnay glasses?
The Veloce Chardonnay 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 white wine glass?
The Veloce Chardonnay glass is specifically designed for full-bodied white wines with rich texture and complexity. The 690ml diamond-shaped bowl, rim diameter, and overall geometry are calibrated to enhance Chardonnay's characteristic buttery texture, oak integration, and layered fruit whilst maintaining freshness perception. Universal glasses offer convenience but compromise on varietal-specific performance. For premium Chardonnay and white Burgundy where you've invested in quality, the specific design reveals 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. Always hold the glass by the base when filled rather than gripping the stem, particularly given the 690ml capacity. 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 perfectly 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 Chardonnay glass isn't arbitrary - it's the result of extensive testing and refinement to determine which bowl geometry optimally presents full-bodied white wines.
Bowl shape affects three critical factors: how aromatics collect and concentrate, how wine flows to different areas of your palate, and how temperature is maintained during service. The 690ml capacity provides sufficient volume for complex aromatics to develop without being so large that wine temperature rises too quickly. The diamond shape's wider mid-section allows oxygen interaction whilst the tapered top concentrates aromatics. The rim diameter and curvature direct wine flow to emphasise Chardonnay's characteristic richness whilst maintaining acidity perception.
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 premium Chardonnay into a Veloce glass, you'll perceive the characteristics the winemaker intended and the terroir expressed, consistently, every time.
