In early 1992, a panel of Scotch whisky experts convened at Riedel's headquarters in Austria to test a range of nineteen different glass shapes.
On the basis of this first selection, Georg Riedel undertook further research with the help of master distillers in Scotland. This research resulted in a glass that is an elongated thistle shape on a truncated stem. The design incorporates a small, slightly outturned lip which directs the spirit onto the tip of the tongue, where sweetness is perceived, and serves to emphasize the elegant creaminess of top quality single malt whisky.