No. 001 - Tastevin
Early 1800’s French tastevin
Sterling with 1785 Louis XVI Ecu
4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 cm)
A tastevin is a small, shallow, silver cup or saucer traditionally used by winemakers and sommeliers to judge the maturity, quality, taste, and color of a wine.
Coins were historically used as a decorative, functional element to reflect candlelight from its raised surfaces and texts. The coin, divots, and reservoirs allow the sommelier to assess the color and clarity of the wine in dimly lit cellars.
There are three shown here (image 1), one is highlighted, the others require more research. They are examples of haute silver to a branded, but still useful wine making utensil.
Tastevin with 1785 Louis XVI Ecu
