Although paper cups will do in a tragic emergency, Syrah glasses will bring out the color, smell and taste of your Syrah wine.
Claus Riedel pioneered designing wine glasses to suit the particular characteristics of a wine. Based in part on Riedel’s early work, it is well-accepted that the right Syrah glass will bring out the right intensity of aroma of your Syrah wine and will direct it to the proper parts of your palate to maximize your enjoyment.
Reidel’s glassware company continues to make the finest Syrah glasses. According to Robert M. Parker, Jr., of The Wine Advocate: “The finest glasses for both technical and hedonistic purposes are those made by Riedel. The effect of these glasses on fine wine is profound. I cannot emphasize enough what a difference they make.” There are, however, a number of other well-regarded wine glass companies that make Syrah glasses. You are certain to find Syrah glasses that suit your budget and taste.
The correct Syrah glass will control your Syrah’s exposure to the air in just the right amount to maximize its flavor. The size of the bowl will affect how much you can swirl the wine, and swirling increases a wine’s exposure to the air. The styling of the rim affects what part of the palate your Syrah is directed to. Finally, the size of the opening affects the aroma. For Syrah, choose wine glasses that have a big bowl and a big opening. These kinds of Syrah glasses will allow your Syrah to properly open up and unleash its complex flavors.