Introduced in 1986, Vinum was the first machine-made series of glasses in history to be based exclusively on the characteristics of grape varietels. Vinum, functional, high in quality, reasonably priced and widely distributed, has had a permanent impact on the globe's wine glass culture. These glasses have proved to consumers and restaurateurs that the pleasure of consuming wine starts with the glass. The Vinum collection, developed by Georg Riedel on the principle that the content commands the shape, is the "Vitrum-Vinothek" for every day use. Vinum is made of over 24% lead crystal. Red Wine Stemware Syrah 416/30 Bordeaux/Cabernet 416/0 Burgundy/Pinot Noir 416/7 Zinfandel/Chianti 416/15 Tasting Set / Port / Tasting Stemware Tasting Set 5416/4 Set of 1 $74.00 (1 Bordeaux, 1 Burgundy, 1 Sauvgnon Blanc, 1 Chardonnay) Port 416/60 Set of 6 $90.00 Tasting Glass 416/22 Set of 1 $28.50

Recent studies have found that lead can leach into food from lead crystal hollowware. The International Crystal Federation has provided FDA a report of its research on lead leaching into food and alcoholic beverages, and the industry has started a program in which manufacturers share technological developments to reduce lead leaching. Also FDA has initiated studies of its own on lead leaching from crystalware.

Until FDA reviews all the data and determines what further actions, if any, need to be taken, the agency advises consumers not to store alcoholic beverages in lead crystal decanters, and pregnant women not to routinely drink from lead crystal glasses. Infants should not be fed with lead crystal baby bottles.

Because lead is ubiquitous, FDA recognizes that no effort will totally eliminate lead from the food supply, however desirable that may be. But FDA and many other federal, state and local governments are working together through all available means to reduce exposure to lead. The initial focus is on the sources likely to result in the greatest exposure.