This year, “Riedel” celebrates 270 years of glassmaking excellence. Discover the fascinating story of a family dynasty and the anniversary products marking this milestone.
The story begins in 1756, deep in the forests of Bohemia, in what is now the Czech Republic. It was here that the first “Riedel” glassworks was founded. In its early years, production focused on window glass and buttons, before gradually evolving towards more refined and exclusive glassware.
When the family established itself in Austria during the 20th century, the company entered a new era – one defined by a clear focus on wine glasses. The breakthrough came in 1958, when Claus J. Riedel introduced the world’s first grape-varietal-specific wine glass. It was a pioneering idea: the shape of a glass could influence a wine’s aroma and flavour. In doing so, “Riedel” fundamentally changed the wine world.
Much has happened since. Today, the company is led by Maximilian Riedel, grandson of Claus and the eleventh generation of the family’s glassmaking dynasty. Together with his father, Georg Riedel, he has continued to develop the range and make grape-varietal-specific glassware accessible to wine lovers around the globe.
Now, the next chapter is being written. To mark its 270th anniversary, “Riedel” is celebrating with an exclusive anniversary collection, including carefully curated value packs featuring selected wine glasses. Keep an eye out this spring, when these coveted glasses are released.
From the forests of Bohemia to the world’s most elegant dining tables, the journey continues. And one thing is certain: the glass is far from half empty.
