Examining the Wusthof Catalog
Wusthof has been one the of biggest names in knives since 1814. Operating from Solingen, Germany, the “Cutlery Capital” of the world, Wusthof continues to produce knives that are used by top chefs and four-star kitchens the world over. Wusthof knives are the favorites of many prominent chefs such as Gordon Ramsay, Jamie Oliver, and James Martin. This high quality is the result of a rigorous system of forty separate processes that go into the forging of each and every blade.
Wusthof’s catalog has knives of many different price ranges. Some are aimed at your average person with a passion for cooking, while others are reserved for use in the best four-star kitchens around the world. If you’re looking for a Wusthof knife set, this article should help you find a first-rate set that’s within your budget.
The Emerilware collection of knives bears the mark of star chef Emeril Legassi, who has used Wusthof knives throughout his career and on his popular show, Emeril Live! Emeril himself handpicked the knives in this set. These blades are designed with ergonomic handles for comfortable cutting. The handles have a pebble grain, slip-resistant finish to reduce kitchen accidents. The blades are made of a stain resistant steel alloy that should last a long time. Easily sharpened, these knives are super sharp and hold their edge well.
As far as Wusthof knives go, the Emerilware set is among the cheapest available. With reasonable prices that any cooking enthusiast should be able to afford, these knives are still of the highest quality - Wusthof wouldn’t have their name attached otherwise. Starting at just $20 for each knife, the complete set costs $150. If you’re looking for other options in the same price range, you can peruse the Silverpoint collection. As it happens, many Emerilware knives are based on Silverpoint designs.
For someone looking for a mid-range option, the Le Cordon Bleu collection is an excellent choice. These lightweight knives feature a seamless triple-riveted handle, with the Wusthof logo prominently displayed. With their reduced weight and superior balance, these knives are great for reducing fatigue from lengthy cutting jobs. Precision forged, the blades are some of the sharpest in the Wusthof catalog.
Starting at around $50 for a single knife, you can find 14 piece sets of the Le Cordon Bleu collection for around $400. It may seem like a big investment, but these knives are built to last. They are constructed with full tangs, which means that the metal that holds the blade to the handle runs the full length of the handle. This offers superior durability for a knife that won’t break easily. For other options in a similar price range, the Wusthof Gourmet and Grand Prix sets are available. The latter set is similar to the Le Cordon Bleu, but features a different handle design.
For the buyer for who wants quality at any cost, some of the most outstanding knives in the Wusthof catalog belong to the Ikon collection. Sharing the triple-riveted handle design of the Le Cordon Bleu set, the handles of these knives are built of a wood called Grenadill, also known as Mozambique Ebony. This wood is extraordinarily strong and gives the knives a beautiful look and unique feel. Precision forged blades give Ikon knives amazing sharpness that’s been laser tested to ensure quality. With full tangs, most of Ikon collection should last a long, long time.
The Ikon set features some of the highest quality knives on the market today, so you can expect to pay accordingly. Individual knives from this collection cost $100 each, and a full set of 18 knives costs around $1,400! Clearly, these blades are meant for professionals, and are likely out of the price range of most casual buyers. Other options in this price range include the Ikon Classic in black or white, and the Culinar collection, which is a pure stainless steel set.
No matter your needs or culinary skill, there’s a high quality Wusthof knife with your name on it. Don’t waste your money on cheap knives that go dull in days - make an investment that will last with super sharp, long lasting Wusthof blades.