Tailored by Taste: The Grassl Glass Vigneron Collection.

On a bright afternoon, Amelie Amstelveen, the refined wine bar located in the celebrated Restaurant Amber Garden, provided the perfect setting for an exclusive masterclass hosted by Grassl Glass. Participants, a curated selection of wine enthusiasts and industry professionals, enjoyed an insightful exploration of glassware’s profound impact on wine tasting and an impeccably paired menu crafted by Amber Garden.

Grassl Glass – Philosophy and Craftsmanship

Grassl Glass, founded by Alexander Mackh in 2018, quickly garnered acclaim for meticulously designed, handmade glasses enhancing fine wines’ authenticity and typicity. Grassl Glass stands out from other glass producers because their designs are developed in close cooperation with winemakers, prioritizing the distinct style and signature of each wine producer rather than adopting a broad, region-based or grape-variety-based approach.

Alexander believes focusing specifically on individual winemakers’ styles yields superior results. Modern winemakers often develop unique styles influenced by international experiences and diverse winemaking philosophies, contrasting sharply with past practices where regional homogeneity was common, and stylistic diversity rare. This targeted approach allows Grassl Glass to create glasses precisely capturing the nuanced vision and intended expression of each winemaker.

The Vigneron Collection – Functional Elegance

Center of attention for the afternoon was the Grassl Glass Vigneron Collection. A series of four wine glasses that embodies a weightless yet functional design philosophy, meticulously crafted to capture and accentuate the unique signature intended by winemakers. 

The collection consists of four distinctive glasses:

• Mineralité Vigneron: Designed for high-acid, mineral-driven wines, it accentuates freshness, minerality, and nuanced aromatics.
• Liberté Vigneron: Tailored for fuller-bodied white wines and delicate reds, this glass highlights richness, complexity, and broader aromatic profiles.
• Cru Vigneron: Crafted specifically for elegant, medium-bodied reds, enhancing aromatic clarity and structural elegance.
• 1855 Vigneron: Created with powerful, structured red wines in mind, it allows the wine’s depth, tannins, and concentrated aromas to express fully.

Mackh emphasized his commitment to authenticity and typicity in wine appreciation—an approach recognized by the attending professionals, including sommeliers and members of the press. This philosophy was clearly demonstrated during the tasting of Ferme de la Sansonnière’s Chenin Blanc, where the contrast between the Mineralité and Liberté glasses was striking. The taller, narrower Mineralité glass accentuated the wine’s salinity and subtle complexity, while the Liberté offered a fuller, more expansive aromatic expression.

The Shared History of Amelie and Grassl

Amelie Amstelveen’s connection with Grassl Glass stems from the longstanding friendship between Alexander Mackh and Stark Li, owner of both Amber Garden and Amelie. Their partnership, built on a shared passion for gastronomy and fine wine, has developed over the past decade—culminating in the presence of Grassl Glass at Stark’s restaurants.

This deep-rooted collaboration came to life during the event, where guests were treated to a beautifully curated lunch that reflected the spirit of this friendship.

Amber Garden’s menu highlighted their refined blend of Chinese culinary tradition and European elegance, with each dish thoughtfully paired with hand-selected wines (some of which sourced from Alexander’s private collection).

Aperitif

Dhondt-Grellet Cramant Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut, offering crisp, mineral-driven refreshment ideal for awakening the palate.

Glass pairing: Liberté Vigneron

First Course

Marinated Argentinian Red Prawn served alongside pickled cucumber and ginger zucchini, creating a vibrant balance of fresh, spicy, and acidic elements.

Paired with: 2021 ‘La Lune’ Chenin Blanc (Loire Valley), whose saline minerality and citrus notes enhanced the freshness of the seafood, and 2017 Meursault 1er Cru Le Poruzot Dessus (Domaine Tessier), with its richer, layered textures complementing the delicate sweetness of the prawn.

Glass pairing:

‘La Lune’ Ferme de la Sansonniere Chenin Blanc Loire Valley, France – Mineralité Vigneron

Domaine Tessier Meursault 1er Cru Le Poruzot Dessus – Liberté Vigneron

Second Course

Signature Beijing Duck accompanied by hawthorn jelly, sweet soybean sauce, and luxurious caviar. The interplay of sweet, savory, and umami flavors provided depth and complexity.

Paired with: 2022 Michael Broger Blauburgunder Alte Rebe, whose silky, elegant texture and subtle fruit notes highlighted the sophisticated depth of the duck dish.

Glass pairing: Cru Vigneron

Third Course

Succulent Angus Ribeye served with robust Black Bean Pepper Sauce and fragrant house-made garlic bread, showcasing bold, hearty flavors.

Paired with: 2012 Stella di Campalto Brunello di Montalcino Riserva, a wine of stature, featuring structured tannins, depth, and harmonious fruit character perfectly matching the beef’s intensity.

Glass pairing: Cru Vigneron

Fourth Course

A curated cheese platter featuring Alpine blossom, creamy Brillat-Savarin, and the intense Colossus Blue made from Dutch Buffalo milk. This diverse selection provided an engaging sensory experience.

Paired with: 2017 Côte-Rôtie Terrasses Jean Luc Jamet, whose savory depth, spice, and elegant tannins offered a perfect finish to this culinary adventure.

Glass pairing: Liberté Vigneron

Celebrating Artistry and Excellence

The event eloquently combined the artistry of glass design, culinary craftsmanship, and passion for exceptional wine. Alexander Mackh’s Grassl Glass commitment to authenticity, Amber Garden’s culinary innovation, and Amelie’s dedication to excellence showcased how meticulous attention to detail—from vineyard to glass—profoundly enhances the wine experience.

This article is written by our own Niels Aarts. We would like to thank Grassl Glass (Alexander Mackh), Amelie (Julee Bruens) and Amber Garden (Stark Li) for the wonderful afternoon and their support in writing this article. If you would like to learn more about Amelie be sure to read our article covering their opening.