Ep 264 – Wine Glasses Explained: Does Glass Shape Really Change the Taste of Wine? With Max Riedel

In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina sits down with Max Riedel of Riedel Glassware to explore one of the most debated topics in wine education and wine tasting: does the shape of a wine glass really change the way wine tastes? From the science behind bowl size, rim diameter and aroma delivery to grape-specific wine glasses, decanters and the evolution of modern wine styles, Max shares insights from the Riedel family's glassmaking tradition dating back to 1756. Together, they discuss how different wine regions, wine grapes and winemaking approaches influence glass design, why varieties such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay require different shapes, and how wine lovers can improve their wine appreciation through simple tasting experiments. The conversation also explores decanting wine, collecting fine wine, memorable bottles, and the changing landscape of global wine culture. Whether you're passionate about wine education, curious about the impact of glassware on sensory perception, or simply looking to learn about wine and deepen your understanding of wine, this wine podcast episode is packed with practical insights, expert advice and fascinating stories from one of the most influential names in the wine world. 03:06 – Demystifying wine glasses — why aesthetics and weight matter less than functionality and sensory performance. 05:07 – The science behind glass shape — bowl size, rim diameter and how they influence aroma and flavour perception. 08:53 – Developing glasses for different wine regions — how feedback from winemakers shapes future designs. 10:56 – Why the right glass matters — Max explains the famous Riedel tasting experience comparing wines in different Riedel Veloce glasses. 13:31 – Chardonnay vs Pinot Noir glasses — why one Burgundy glass is not enough for two very different wine grapes. 16:38 – Growing up in the Riedel family — glassmaking history, storytelling and a family business dating back to 1756. 19:13 – Inside Max’s cellar — collecting wines, buying en primeur and the excitement of aging bottles over time. 20:42 – How many bottles are in Max Riedel’s cellar? A glimpse into a serious wine collection. 21:30 – Family memories in wine — wedding wines, children's vintages and a remarkable bottle dating back to 1756. 23:13 – Decanters explained — sediment, aeration and why decanting is about more than just old wines. 24:59 – Choosing a favourite decanter — Max discusses the iconic Riedel Amadeo Decanter and its connection to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. 27:00 – How to clean a decanter properly — simple maintenance tips for keeping crystal glassware spotless. 29:43 – Wine regions that inspire Max — from Austria and Alsace to the future of German Riesling. 32:23 – Why Pinot Noir is so challenging — regional differences, minerality and the need for highly specific glass shapes. 33:55 – Choosing a Riedel range — from machine-made collections to handmade lines such as Fatto A Mano and Manufaktur.  36:09 – Sunday Wine Fun Day — family adventures, social media fame and opening great wines in unusual places. 38:07 – The oldest wine Max has tasted — an extraordinary blind tasting of an 1865 Bordeaux. 39:15 – The largest bottle Max has opened — sharing wine from an 18-litre bottle and the challenges that come with it. 40:24 – The wine grape that continues to surprise him — why Grüner Veltliner deserves more attention from wine lovers. 42:05 – Upcoming RIEDEL experiences — Max shares details about future tastings and wine glass events across the UK.  📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025 and 2026) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list