Get to know the people behind the stylish products that will appear at the 2014 International Home + Housewares Show in Discover Design. Our conversations with exhibitors give you a glimpse of the inspirations, influences and ideas that go into creating the exciting products that you’ll see in March at McCormick Place.
Today we are speaking with Mateo Bouatta, export manager for Lehmann Verrerie de la Marne, the glassware maker based in Reims, France. Lehmann is known for quality manufacturing and specialty services to its clients.
Mr. Bouatta, tell us about Lehmann Glass.
If famous glassmakers are offering varied products, then at Lehmann Glass we define ourselves as being creator of experience! We bring oenological concepts, novelties and unique expertise in both the glassware and wine industries. Lehmann Glass is an oenological brand which offers high-quality glassware for prestigious customers. We make glassware for wine, champagne and cocktails as well as beverage serving accessories. Our partners in the wine industry, including sommelerie and oenologists, inspire and encourage our efforts.
For years, driven by a genuine need for professional challenge, and with a wealth of experience, Gérard Lehmann and Gérard Basset looked for a glass that offers the perfect oenological experience. Mr. Lehmann, a glass designer for more than 30 years and a passionate perfectionist, works with the world’s most distinguished wine makers.
Gerard Basset (pictured above), born and educated in France, is a chef, sommelier and hotelier. He moved to England in the 1980s and built his career as a sommelier. He has been awarded many honors including the Best Sommelier in the U.K., Best International Sommelier for French Wines in 1995 and the Best Sommelier in Europe in 1996. In 2010, he was named Best Sommelier in the World. In addition to these talents, Mr. Basset is also an hotelier. In 1994, he co-founded the Hotel du Vin and expanded it to several locations. In 2011, on the occasion of the Queen’s birthday, he was made an Officer of the British Empire for his services to hospitality.
In 2012, he joined Mr. Lehmann (pictured above) and they applied their expertise to establish the essential tasting brand: Lehmann Glass, The Wine Lover’s Label. With Lehmann Glass, they create oenological ‘tools’ that enhance aromas of all wines and please refined tastes.
How do you choose which idea to take to the next step—to product development?
Our mission is to create innovative and unique wine glasses that enhance aromas of all wines and respect the tradition of wine tasting. Each product we design and each new product developed is driven by this philosophy.
How do you identify the key user audience for your products?
Our vision is to offer oenological experiences to delight wine lovers and to make the magic of wine more accessible to wine enthusiasts. So the key user audience for Lehmann Glass is simply the Wine Lover!
Where are your products manufactured?
France.
How do you see design’s importance in our industry as it moves forward?
French companies rely upon unique design and quality to face global competition. In our business, middle/upper class customers are looking for items that combine great design and functionality. In addition, they love it when there is a nice story behind the product.
How does Discover Design help you build your brand?
We will see!
Can you give us a preview of what you will be showing in your booth in Discover Design?
We will display all the Lehmann Glass collection. Our latest innovation is the Oenomust wine glass made of lead-free crystal. The Oenomust glass is a surprisingly innovative design that combines a wide base that enables a wine lover to perfectly rotate wines and an upper rounded bowl that enhances the flavor and aroma of wines. The thin rim makes the tasting experience all the more enjoyable because of how it feels when it touches the lips and ensures that the wine reaches the taste buds. The break-resistant Oenomust is durable for daily use and preserves its long-term purity after many times in the dishwasher.
Thank you, Mr. Bouatta, for telling us about the partnership of Mr. Lehmann and Mr. Basset and their creation of your exciting new offerings for the enjoyment of fine wines. We look forward to seeing your beautiful glassware, barware and accessories at Discover Design Booth S3770. Learn more about Lehmann’s elegant beverageware on their web page.
Discover Design is the premier design destination at the International Home + Housewares Show. Located in the South Building, the invitation-only category features more than 100 exhibitors from around the world. Companies driven by innovation and design present distinctive products and collections in Tabletop, Gift, Textiles and Home Décor categories. The Discover Design Gallery, accessible to buyers and media, features select products that are entries in the Global Innovation Award (gia) for Design. Learn more about Discover Design exhibitors and their products by checking Housewares Connect 365 here.
