If you work in the hospitality industry, you've probably wondered what could be causing such a price difference between two seemingly identical glasses. In this post, we'll explore exactly that!
Material selection
Let's start with the most important thing: the material. Cheaper glasses are usually made of plain glass, while crystal is the most common choice for more expensive glasses. The quality, sparkle, thin walls and sound of crystal glass are truly impressive, but the material is only part of the equation. When we talk about a wine glass made of crystal, we must first talk about its “conductivity”. After all, crystal conducts heat better than the simpler glass. Why is this important? The temperature of the wine has a decisive influence on its taste and aroma, so the cooling effect of a crystal glass can help to maintain the wine at the optimum temperature. The price of a really high quality wine glass is influenced not only by the material, but also by the quality of the design and manufacture.
Design
When the price of a glass reaches 20,000 forints or more, it often means that special attention has been paid in the design to how the shape and size of the glass affects the taste and aroma of the wine. A well-designed glass allows the wine to “breathe”, i.e. it is in contact with the air, which brings out the flavours and aromas. In addition, the shape of the glass also influences where the wine first meets the tongue, which also affects the taste sensation. And designing the shape and size of the glass is a real art. For white wine, for example, we recommend a narrower and taller glass, because it keeps the wine cooler and concentrates the aromas better. For red wine, on the other hand, we recommend a wide glass with a larger base, so that the wine has more surface contact with the air and can develop more.
Production
And when it comes to production, in the higher price range, glasses are often made by hand. about work while the cheaper versions are made by machines. A through manual work glasses can be unique, precise and delicate, which of course increases the cost. Artisan glassmaking uses traditional techniques handed down from generation to generation. Each glass is shaped, polished and polished by hand, guaranteeing a unique and premium quality. Making these glasses is time-consuming and skilled work, but the results are always stunning.
Durability
Cheaper glasses may be prone to scratching, breakage and generally less durable, while more expensive glasses made from high quality materials are more durable and will retain their beauty and function over time, which is key in a restaurant. Of course, if you're thinking as a caterer, prestige matters too. A stylish, expensive wine glass can make a big impression on guests and enhance the image of your restaurant, bar or hotel.
So a wine glass in the higher price range is made of quality materials, artfully designed, handmade and durable. But most of all, it helps the wine to shine through to its best advantage. However, the choice is ultimately yours: cheaper glasses will do if you don't want to spend a lot of money and the perfect wine experience isn't important. In any case, consider your own needs and possibilities.
