ZWILLING KNIFE BLOCK SETS

When choosing a knife block set online, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you’re getting a set that suits your kitchen needs and offers long-lasting quality. Here’s how to make the best decision:

1. Number and Variety of Knives: Ensure the set includes the essential knives for your cooking style.
2. Knife Material: Look for sets made with high-quality materials like stainless steel or high-carbon stainless steel. These materials provide excellent durability, resist rust and corrosion, and hold their sharp edge longer. Ceramic knives can also be a good option for sharpness but are more brittle than steel.
3. Handle Design and Comfort: While shopping online, focus on knives with ergonomically designed handles. Handles described as having a "comfortable grip" are ideal for extended use. Check customer reviews to see how comfortable users find the handles, as this can give insights when you can’t physically test them.
4. Knife Block Design: Consider the design of the block itself. Wooden blocks are traditional and sturdy, but you can also find more modern options like acrylic, stainless steel, or magnetic strips. Think about your kitchen space and style when choosing the block design, ensuring it matches your décor and fits conveniently on your counter.
5. Maintenance and Sharpening: Some knife block sets come with built-in sharpeners which is something to consider.
6. Storage and Safety: Knife blocks should securely hold each knife to prevent them from dulling or falling out. Check descriptions and reviews for blocks with secure slots and stable bases. For added safety, look for blocks with rubber feet or weighted bases to prevent slipping.
7. Size and Counter Space: Consider how much counter space the block will take up. Some blocks are more compact or vertical in design, which can save space in smaller kitchens. Magnetic knife strips or drawer inserts are alternative options if you prefer to save countertop space entirely.
8. Brand Reputation and Reviews: Well-known brands with a reputation for high-quality knives are often a safer bet. Check online reviews for insights into the durability, sharpness, and user satisfaction of the knife set before making a purchase.
9. Price and Longevity: While it’s tempting to go for a cheaper set, investing in a mid-range to higher-quality set often means you’re getting better materials, sharper blades, and longer-lasting performance. A good knife set can last for many years if properly maintained.

Knife blocks are a popular and stylish way to store kitchen knives, keeping them organised and easily accessible. However, improper use can lead to blade dulling over time. To prevent this and maintain your knives' sharpness:

• Insert Knives Carefully: Place knives into the block with the spine (the non-cutting edge) entering first. This technique minimises contact between the blade's edge and the block, reducing dulling.
• Keep Knives Clean and Dry: Ensure knives are thoroughly cleaned and dried before storage to prevent moisture buildup, which can damage both the blade and the block.
• Regularly Clean the Knife Block: Periodically remove all knives and clean the block's slots to eliminate debris and maintain hygiene.

By following these practices, you can enjoy the aesthetic and organisational benefits of a knife block while preserving the sharpness and longevity of your knives.

Yes, knife blocks can develop mould if not properly maintained. Moisture and food particles left on knives can transfer into the slots, creating an environment conducive to mould and bacterial growth. Over time, this can compromise both the hygiene of your kitchen and the longevity of your knives.

Easy Ways to Prevent Mould Growth in Your Knife Block:

• Ensure Knives Are Completely Dry: Always dry your knives thoroughly before placing them back into the block. Even slight moisture can promote mould development.
• Regular Cleaning: Periodically clean the knife block to remove any accumulated debris. Use a pipe cleaner or small brush to reach inside the slots, and wash the exterior with mild soapy water. Ensure the block is completely dry before reinserting knives.
• Proper Placement: Store the knife block in a dry area, away from sources of moisture like sinks or stovetops, to minimise exposure to humidity.

Generally in Solingen, Germany. This is a city in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, often referred to as the "city of blades." This location is renowned for its rich history and tradition in high-quality knife production. Most of Zwilling's higher-end knives are manufactured here, maintaining the legacy and standards set since the company's founding in 1731.

However, some of their knives are manufactured in other countries. This allows them to cater for the different markets across the globe.

Zwilling have a few collections. To make things easier for you, we have covered the ones we stock here at The Cotswold Knife Company here!

1. Zwilling Diplôme: Developed in collaboration with the culinary school "Le Cordon Bleu", the Zwilling Diplôme knives feature blades made from the special professional steel FC61, used also for making razor blades. This steel ensures excellent initial performance and lasting edge retention. The blades are honed using the traditional Japanese Honbazuke method, resulting in unparalleled sharpness with a total angle of around 20°. The handle is a three-rivet design, comfortable to work with, and features full tang with blue trim for optimal balance​​​​​​​​.
2. Zwilling Pro: Designed specifically for professional chefs, the Pro line knives are forged from high-quality stainless steel, providing exceptional strength and durability. The handles are made from a unique polymer, comfortable and secure even when wet, and feature a distinctive curve for an ergonomic grip. The blade design is modern, with thicker and heavier blades ideal for chopping and slicing through tougher materials​​.
3. Zwilling Twin Series (Twin Fin II): This series represents a blend of traditional German design and Japanese knife forging traditions. Made in Seki, Japan, the TWIN Fin II knives are known for their corrosion resistance and long lifespan. They feature a total angle of 22° and are made from N60 steel, meeting high standards of quality and functionality. This series is ideal for those who appreciate Japanese knife forging tradition and ergonomic design​​.
4. Zwilling Gourmet: The Gourmet line is aimed at both professional chefs and home cooks, featuring precision-stamped blades made from high-quality stainless steel. These knives are lightweight, durable, and easy to maintain. The handles are made from a durable polymer with a classic, timeless three-rivet design. This series is ideal for newcomers to cooking who are looking for high-quality, functional, ergonomic, and durable kitchen knives​​​​.

Zwilling knives, renowned for their quality and precision, are used by a wide range of individuals, from home cooks to professional chefs. Here are a few notable users, including celebrity chefs:

1. Gordon Ramsay: The famous British chef, known for his fiery temper and exceptional culinary skills, has been seen using Zwilling knives in various settings. His preference for high-quality kitchen tools aligns well with Zwilling's reputation for precision and durability.
2. Jamie Oliver: Another well-known British chef and restaurateur, Jamie Oliver, has also been associated with using Zwilling knives. Oliver's approach to cooking, which emphasizes simplicity and quality ingredients, is complemented by the reliable performance of Zwilling knives.
3. Culinary Schools: Many culinary schools around the world, including prestigious ones, often equip their kitchens with Zwilling knives. These schools recognize the importance of providing their students with top-notch tools to learn and practice their culinary skills.
4. Professional Chefs and Restaurants: Numerous professional chefs and high-end restaurants globally prefer Zwilling knives for their reliability and precision. These chefs require tools that can withstand the rigors of a professional kitchen and maintain their sharpness and efficiency over long periods.
5. Home Cooks and Enthusiasts: Zwilling knives are not just for professionals; they are also popular among home cooks and cooking enthusiasts. The brand offers a range of knives that cater to various needs and skill levels, making them a preferred choice for many who are passionate about cooking at home.

Maintaining your Zwilling knives involves several essential practices to ensure they stay sharp, durable, and in top condition:

1. Cleaning: Always wash your Zwilling knives by hand with warm water and mild detergent immediately after use. It's important to avoid using the dishwasher, as the harsh environment can damage both the blade and the handle over time. After washing, dry the knives completely with a soft cloth to prevent any rust formation.
2. Honing: Regular honing is key to keeping your Zwilling knives sharp and maintaining their edge. Use a honing steel before or after each use to realign the blade's edge. Hold the steel vertically and gently slide the knife down and across the steel at a 20-degree angle.
3. Sharpening: In addition to regular honing, your Zwilling knives will need periodic sharpening, typically once or twice a year depending on how frequently you use them. You can sharpen your knives using a whetstone, a handheld sharpener, or opt for professional sharpening services.
4. Storage: Proper storage is crucial for the longevity of your knives. Store your Zwilling knives in a knife block, on a magnetic strip, or within protective sheaths. This not only prevents the blades from dulling but also helps avoid accidents. Storing knives in a drawer is not recommended, as they can easily get damaged.
5. Cutting Surface: To maintain the sharpness of your knife edges, always use wooden or plastic cutting boards. Cutting on hard surfaces like glass, metal, or stone can quickly dull your knives.
6. Avoid Misuse: Remember that Zwilling knives are specifically designed for cutting food. Avoid using them for any non-food related tasks, as this can damage the blade and potentially void the warranty.
7. Handle with Care: Always be mindful of the knife's balance and handle it with care. Avoid dropping or carelessly tossing your knives, as this can lead to damage to both the blade and the handle.

Shop at Cotswold Knife Company with confidence, knowing we are a verified stockist of Zwilling knives.