Glassware
Glass for the table and the bar: hobnail tumblers, hand-painted and ultra-thin crystal stemware, decanters, cake stands and glass serving pieces.
Stemmed or stemless?
A stem keeps a warm hand off the bowl, which matters for anything served chilled. Stemless glasses are harder to knock over and fit a dishwasher rack, so they suit everyday use and outdoor tables. Most households end up owning both.
What does ultra-thin crystal actually change?
The rim. A fine rim delivers the drink to the lip without a ledge of glass in front of it, so the first taste is the drink rather than the vessel. It is most noticeable on spirits served without ice. Thin rims should be hand washed.
How many wine glasses should a household keep?
Six of one universal shape covers nearly everything, including a table of six. Add a second set only if you regularly serve two wines at the same meal.
