Representing Wüsthof’s Gourmet series of knives, this block set features less expensive versions of the knives in the manufacturer’s Classic series. Knives in the set include an 8-inch cook’s knife, an 8-inch carving knife, a 6-1/2-inch santoku, an 8-inch bread knife, a 6-inch sandwich knife, a 4-1/4-inch tomato knife, a 4-inch utility knife, a 3-inch paring knife, six 4-1/2-inch steak knives, a 6-inch kitchen fork, kitchen shears, and a 9-inch sharpening steel. Everything fits within the 17-slot rubber-footed oak block. Although the blades are still made of high-carbon steel with a stain-resistant alloy, the difference in the Gourmet series is that the blade is a thinner quality metal and is cut by a precision laser instead of by hand. The blade still has an ideal shape as it is ground and polished by computer to ensure perfect tapering from tip to bolster. Full tangs extend through the synthetic traditional-style handles, which are triple-riveted for strength. These knives are dishwasher-safe but handwashing is recommended to preserve the edges on the blades. The Gourmet series is an excellent alternative for those who want to own quality Wüsthof cutlery but are on a budget. --Cristina Vaamonde

What’s in the Box
8-inch cook’s knife; 8-inch carving knife; 6-1/2-inch santoku; 8-inch bread knife; 6-inch sandwich knife; 4-1/4-inch tomato knife; 4-inch utility knife; 3-inch paring knife; six 4-1/2-inch steak knives; 6-inch kitchen fork; kitchen shears; 9-inch sharpening steel; oak block.

Laser-cut high-carbon steel blade with stain-resistant alloy

Precise tapering from grinding and polishing procedure

Full, seamlessly encased triple-riveted tangs

Synthetic traditional-style handles

Comes packed in a 17-slot oak block