Sip in style

Thanks to last week’s Vancouver International Wine Festival and the many, many fine vintages we sampled there, we’ve been thinking about wine a lot just lately. Yep, even more than usual. Last week, we rounded up the essential gadgets every wine lover sho

THE PRETTY GLASS

Whether you are planning a spring garden party or searching for that one-of-a-kind wedding gift, these pretty stemless wine glasses are just what you’re seeking. Made by Virginia’s LK Custom Creations, they are hand-painted with a Zen-like cherry blossom motif that just happens to capture the essence of Vancouver in spring. (Other designs are also available.) Now that’s what we call romance in a glass.

LK Custom Creations, $40.35 each | etsy.com

THE PARTY GLASS

If you entertain a lot, you probably don’t want to put your fine, $50-a-stem wineglasses into the hands of your party-hardy buddies. But you still want to serve wine in something nicer than, say, a Solo cup. Luckily, Ikea has a good selection of stemmed and stemless wine glasses, such as the chic Ivrig collection, at prices that mean you won’t cry if your old college roommate drops one on the patio pavement. Well, unless it was full of vintage Bordeaux at the time, of course.

Ikea, $1.49 to $2.99 each | ikea.com

THE ELEGANT GLASS

Sometimes, only the very best, will do. And for that, there’s Waterford. The Lismore Essence collection is the next generation of the classic diamond- and wedge-cut Waterford Lismore glassware. Its thinner walls, slimmer stem and more restrained patterning make it look more modern and feel more comfortable. Plus this red wine goblet is specially designed to enhance the flavours and aromas of your favourite vino.

Waterford Lismore Essence, $100 each | atkinsonsofvancouver.com

THE PRACTICAL GLASS

Stemmed glasses may be the best way to enjoy fine wines, but around the world, most wine is actually drunk from tumblers. After all, stemless glassware is casual and fun; it’s also practical for patio parties, clumsy guests and small kitchen cupboards. Kitchenware company Trudeau has gone a step further by adding an easy-grip design to its lead-free crystalline Azzura collection. Perfect for your weekday pizza wine.

Trudeau, $23.99 for a set of four | trudeau.ca

THE RIGHT GLASS

Until the 1980s, we had glasses for red wine and glasses for white wine. Then Georg Riedel introduced his varietal-specific glasses, and we had glasses for every wine imaginable. These glasses are designed to enhance the aromas, flavours and textures of a specific grape. If you love Chardonnay, there’s a glass for that. If Bordeaux’s your thing, there’s a glass for that, too. And if you were swept off your feet by all the beautiful Barolos at the wine fest, you’ll want to invest in this Riedel Veritas New World Pinot Noir/Nebbiolo glass.

Riedel Veritas, $85 for a set of two | thebay.com