RCR Optiq

The two bowls differ more than their numbers suggest. The 45 cl is the all-rounder in which both a crisp white and a light red wine show well, because you fill it to a third and keep room for the aroma. The 65 cl is meant for firm red wine that needs air, and belongs with the large wine glasses. The 43 cl tumbler is for water and soft drinks on the table, the 67 cl copa for gin and tonic with plenty of ice. If you want one size for everything, take the 45 cl.

With the copa the order matters. Ice to the rim first, then the gin, then the tonic down the side so the fizz stays in. A glass packed with ice melts more slowly than a half-filled one, so being sparing with ice works against you. In the gin and tonic recipe you can read which garnish suits which gin. Pour the wine bowls to the widest point and no higher. A negroni you serve in the tumbler, over one large lump of ice.

Luxion is crystal glass without lead, so the whole series may go in the dishwasher. Run a short glassware programme at no more than sixty degrees and rinse well, because limescale stands out extra on this ribbed wall. Polish with a lint-free cloth while the glass is still hand-warm. Store the bowls upright in the cupboard and do not let the stems touch, because that is where practically all breakage starts.

If you are looking for another shape from the same brand, the full range is at RCR Cristalleria Italiana, including the heavier tumbler series and the carafes. If you would rather compare by shape, have a look at the gin and tonic glasses or at the red wine glasses, where Optiq sits alongside series from other brands. If you already have the glassware but are missing the tools, the bar spoons are ready and waiting.