As simple as a glass may seem, experienced vintners understand that subtle changes in shape can dramatically influence bouquet and flavour. The Richard Juhlin Optimum glass – manufactured by Italesse – was launched to the design world last month at Tokyo Design Week, and introduced in champagne country last week at an event hosted by Château Les Crayères in Reims, France.
After three years of development, and many tastings, Claesson Koivisto Rune has painstakingly developed what Juhlin describes as “the best champagne glass in the world.” Its dimensions – a rim with a small diameter to concentrate the aroma, a bowl that fills to the optimal volume and allows more tiny bubbles to rise to the surface, and a long, super-thin stem for a better grip – have been calibrated for maximum effervescence.
Juhlin is certainly qualified to boast: as the world’s foremost bubbly expert, the Swede has authored seven books about champagne, and this year was awarded France’s highest honour – the Legion d’Honneur – for his contribution to promoting the beverage (an especially rare honour, usually reserved only for French citizens). Juhlin also holds the world record for champagne tasting – almost 9,000 varieties to date.
Just in time for the holiday season, a short video about the design process includes interviews with Claesson Koivisto Rune and Richard Juhlin, along with tips about how best to enjoy champagne.