Riedel Vinum Brandy/Cognac Snifter, Set of 4

Austria's Riedel is the world's premier manufacturer of wine glasses and, with this set of four brandy snifters, the company makes a foray into designing glasses for other beverages. Like the wine glasses in Riedel's Vinum series, these snifters are made of 24-percent lead crystal. The bulbous balloon-style bowl on each glass is specifically shaped for drinkers to cup the bottom and warm the brandy or cognac with one hand. Coupled with the narrower rim on the glass, the bowl is also designed to waft the liquor's aroma to the nose with each sip. Each glass stands 6 inches high and holds a copious 29-5/8 ounces of brandy or cognac; however, it is customary to pour just a few ounces at a time for sipping. --Cristina Vaamonde