Few glasses are as instantly recognisable as the Duralex Picardie. That distinctive panelled design has graced French cafés, bistros, and family tables for decades, becoming as much a symbol of French style as a striped Breton shirt or a perfect croissant. Now you can bring that same timeless elegance to your own table with glasses that combine classic aesthetics with remarkably modern practicality.
The secret lies in Duralex's unique tempering process, which makes these glasses roughly five times stronger than ordinary glass. They're virtually unbreakable under normal use—drop one on your kitchen floor and it's more likely to bounce than shatter. This isn't just clever marketing; it's genuine French engineering that's been perfected over generations of glassmaking expertise.
What makes Picardie glasses so much stronger than regular tumblers?
The tempering process involves heating the glass to around 700°C, then rapidly cooling it with cold air jets. This creates compression stress on the surface whilst leaving the interior in tension—sounds complicated, but the result is beautifully simple: glasses that withstand thermal shock, resist chipping, and handle the rough and tumble of daily use without complaint. You can pour boiling water into them or take them straight from the freezer without worry.
Those distinctive vertical panels aren't just for show either—they actually strengthen the glass structure whilst providing a comfortable, non-slip grip. The faceted design also means they stack neatly, which is brilliant for cupboard storage or when you're setting up for parties.
Which sizes work best for different drinks and occasions?
The beauty of the Picardie range is its versatility. The petite 90ml glasses are perfect for spirits or espresso, whilst the 160ml and 200ml sizes are ideal for juice, wine, or water. The larger 310ml and 360ml glasses excel as highballs for gin and tonics or long drinks, and the generous 500ml size is perfect for beer or iced beverages.
Are they suitable for both everyday use and entertaining?
That's exactly what makes Picardie glasses so appealing—they're smart enough for dinner parties yet practical enough for children's meals. The tempered glass construction means they're dishwasher safe and won't cloud or scratch with regular washing. Their clean, unfussy design complements any table setting, from casual family dinners to sophisticated entertaining. Plus, being virtually unbreakable makes them ideal for outdoor dining, picnics, or poolside drinks where accidents are more likely to happen.