Every time I visit a pub that has an impressive collection of glassware, I am reminded of the quote, “Anyone can drink beer, but it takes intelligence to enjoy a beer.” A true beer lover is proud of his ever growing collection of glassware.
If you’re wondering, do all these different styles of glasses matter, then the answer is a strong, resounding YES. Your glass is more than a utensil that holds your favorite drink. It’s a delivery mechanism that enhances the aroma, flavor and color of your brew. In fact, the type of glass may break or make your overall experience.
So, as a beer aficionado, it’s essential that you understand the different types of beer glasses and what they do to help you, grow your love for this universally, favorite brew.
1. PINT GLASS
This is the most common type of glass and is most likely the one you would see at a bar. The American pint glass also known as the Shaker glass, has a slender cylindrical shape that widens as it reaches the top. It holds around 16 oz and is usually used to serve lagers, ales, and stouts.
The English pint glass is similar to the American one, but it has a small lip at the top. Pint Glasses are cheap, convenient to drink out of, easy to clean and easy to stack. All of which make it the preferred serve-ware in pubs.
2. THE QUINTESSENTIAL BEER MUG
The beer mug is the favorite of several beer drinkers as it’s easy to use, can hold gallons of beer and is robust. It has a handle on the side and consists of thick glass walls which help to keep your drink cold. Sometimes, beer mugs have etchings or dimples on the sides. While many consider these to be merely decorative, beer connoisseurs feel that it helps to make the drinkers view the actual color and clarity of the brew.
Whatever be it, one can’t deny the fact is strong enough to toast your friends heartily while indulging in gallons of beer.
3. BEER STEIN
This is often confused with the beer mug. Steins have a hinged lid and a lever that opens the lid when you press it with your thumb. Steins are made from a wide variety of materials like stoneware, wood, porcelain, pewter and even silver.
Today, beer steins are mainly used as souvenirs or decorative glassware.
4. CHALICES OR GOBLETS
Unlike pints, goblets don’t have a standard size. Goblets have a bowl on top of a thick stem. Chalices are similar to goblets in shape, but they are made of thicker glasses. Some goblets have silver or gold rims. This is just decorative and doesn’t influence the flavor of the beer in any way.
The wide opening helps the drinker better appreciate the flavor and aroma of the drink.
5. PILSNER GLASSES
This is a tall, skinny glass that has no curvatures. It’s mainly used to serve pilsners and hence the name. Pilsners hold lesser volumes when compared to pint glasses. The slender design of the pilsner helps to retain the foam of your drink and brings out the real flavor and aromas.
Pilsners are not only fun to drink out of, but they help you understand the nuances of your drink.
6. WEIZEN GLASSES
They are often mistaken for pilsner glasses due to their similar shapes. The one significant difference is that Weizen has more curvature and they are mainly used for wheat beers. It helps to appreciate the full aroma and flavor of wheat beers.
7. SNIFTERS
This one is rare to find in pubs and bars. Snifters are mostly used for brandy and cognac. Not many people realize that it is a great glass to bring the delicious flavors and aromas of beer. Stronger beers like Belgian ales, IPAs are best enjoyed in this one.
8. THISTLE & TULIP GLASSES
The tulip glass is designed in such a way with a tulip-shaped bowl to trap the foam head. The thistle looks like a stretched tulip glass. These glasses enhance the flavor and aroma of malty and hoppy brews.
SO, WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE?
There are various types of beer glasses, and each one offers a unique experience. We hope this list encourages you to try out different beers in different glassware. So which is your favorite? Get your comments rolling and let’s hear it out.
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