Beer Glasses
Beer enthusiasts know that "Beer Glasses" doesn't refer to the way the world looks after polishing off a few. A beer poured properly into the right glassware offers a more appealing look, a richer aroma, and the brewer's intended taste. In other words, if the beer isn't in the right glass, it simply won't be as good as it should be.
Restaurant managers and chefs know the importance of presentation, and beer is no exception. The show begins when beer hits the glass. A glass bends and reflects light in a way that adds visual appeal to the beer. More than that, the shape of the glass partially determines the size and life of the head of the beer, an important aspect of achieving maximum enjoyment.
The correct amount of head or foam captures the subtleties that affect the aroma and the taste of a beer. Hints of spice and fruit and the complexity of the hops are all at stake when pouring, and the right glass facilitates a proper pour. Different types of beer call for different levels of head retention, which is why each beer has an ideal glass. This complement is so specific that many European beers have glasses designed specifically for that beer. While it's not feasible to stock all of these glasses at your home bar, there are some basic glasses that you can keep around to suit the occasion.
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Beer Mug or Stein
Great for clinking glasses and holding substantial volume. These formidable and stable glasses are perfect for lively, boisterous fun.
Pilsner Glass
This glass is tall and slender with graceful tapering. Its height and contours draw attention to the clean, clear golden color of a pilsner or light lager. The Pilsner glass will maintain the head, which is desirable with this type of beer. European versions may have a stem.
Pint Glass / Tumbler
The two versions of traditional glass have a cylindrical shape with a widening taper toward the top. The American version tapers uniformly, while the British version has a slight ridge at the top to help retain the head. A perfect causal beer glass.
Weizen
The glass designed for wheat beers. The Weizen is tall with voluptuous curves that trap the aromas and essences of the beer in the glass, right where you want them. Accommodates the lovely, thick head of a wheat beer.
Tulip
This tulip shaped glass sits on a stem, which prevents the touch of the hand from warming the beer. A blossoming mouth maintains the head and aids in drawing out the beer's aroma. Great for trying new beers or enjoying old favorites.
Goblet
The Goblet is the perfect glass for maintaining the perfect amount of head from start to finish. A scored bottom causes bubbles to continuously rise to the top, which is one of beer's most captivating visual effects. Not to mention that the elaborate glasses arouse interest on their own.
Champagne Flute
Not just for champagne. Like a Pilsner glass, it will showcase the clarity and carbonation of a beer for an attractive effervescent look. Creates a dramatic aroma.
Snifter
Typically filled with brandy and cigar smoke, these wide bowls will encapsulate the subtle essences and aromas of beer. Swirling action will draw these out, but may compromise the head. Great for beers with strong hop flavors such as ales and bitters.
So there you have it. A great start for getting beer poured the right way, right in your own home. Winston Churchill said life was too short to drink cheap wine. The same goes for beer. There's nothing wrong with being a beer snob. It tastes better up here.
