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Have you ever wondered why different alcohols are served in different glasses? It is not just about looks, there is science and tradition behind it. Each glass is designed to improve the flavours, aromas and overall experience of the drink you are drinking. From the wide bowl of a wine glass that allows the wine to “breathe” to the narrow flute that keeps the bubbles in champagne, the shape of the glass can make a big difference in how the drink tastes and feels. The right glass can make the drinking experience even better so you get the most out of every sip.
For spirits like whisky, the short stout tumbler provides a comfortable grip and focuses the aroma so every sip is more enjoyable. Cocktails on the other hand come in unique shaped glasses to highlight the ingredients and presentation so they look more appealing.
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Whether you are a connoisseur or just someone who enjoys the odd drink, knowing why these choices matter adds a whole new level of appreciation to your drink. Next time you are drinking your favourite drink take a moment to notice how the glass shapes your experience, it is more than you think.
The Science Behind Using Different Glasses For Different Alcohol
Wine Glasses
Wine glasses are designed to bring out the flavour and aroma of the wine. Red wine glasses have a bigger bowl to allow more oxygen to get to the wine and bring out the complexity of the flavours. The narrow rim concentrates the aroma so you get the full hit of the flavours in every sip. White wine glasses have a smaller bowl to keep the wine cooler for longer and preserve the lighter more delicate flavours. For sparkling wines flutes are best as the narrow shape keeps the bubbles in and your drink fresh and fizzy.
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Whisky Glasses
The short and wide shape of a whisky tumbler is comfortable to hold and easy to swirl the liquid which releases the complex aromas. A Glencairn glass used for whisky tastings has a wide base that tapers to a narrower top which concentrates the aromas towards your nose. This is ideal for sipping and savouring the flavours of the spirit. The shape also allows for ice or whisky stones to be added without compromising the drinking experience making it perfect for both neat whisky and on the rocks enthusiasts.
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Beer Glasses
Beer glasses come in different shapes depending on the type of beer being served. A pint glass is the most common and is good for most ales and lagers. The wide rim and straight body allows the beer to release its carbonation and bring out the flavour and aroma. For wheat beers a weizen glass with a curved shape is used to show off the beer’s thick head. Pilsner glasses are tall and slim for lighter lagers as they keep the carbonation and show off the beer’s colour and clarity.
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Cocktail Glasses
Cocktails are served in fancy, unique glasses that match their ingredients and presentation. The martini glass with its wide, shallow bowl lets the aromas of the drink hit your nose with every sip. The long stem keeps your hand off the liquid so the drink stays cold. Highball glasses are tall and for gin and tonics or rum and cokes, so there is room for both liquid and ice and balance of flavour.
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Champagne Flutes
Champagne flutes are tall and thin, designed to keep the bubbles in sparkling wines and champagnes. This shape helps the drink keep its carbonation longer so the effervescent texture lasts through your celebration. The flute channels the aroma straight to your nose so you can smell the wine while you drink. Some prefer stylish coupe glasses but let the bubbles dissipate quicker so are better for a quick sipping.
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Brandy Snifters
Brandy is often served in a snifter, a glass with a wide bowl and a narrow top. The shape lets you swirl the liquid and release the brandy’s deep aromas. The design encourages you to warm the glass with your hand so the drink gets closer to body temperature and the aromas and flavours are enhanced. This type of glass is for sipping brandy and other rich complex spirits like cognac which benefit from slow sipping and concentrated aromas.
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Shot Glasses
Shot glasses are for quick, strong sipping of spirits. Small and sturdy they are easy to hold and quick to drink. The thickness of the glass absorbs some of the impact of a quick pour so are good for straight spirits like tequila, vodka or whisky. Not designed to enhance flavours but practical and functional for quick drinking and portioning.
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Tequila Glasses
Tequila is traditionally served in a tall, thin shot glass called a "caballito". But for higher end tequilas meant to be sipped a glass similar to a whisky snifter is often used. This shape concentrates the aroma of the tequila so you can savour the flavours slowly.
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By controlling the flow of the drink and encouraging slower sips the glass elevates the tequila experience from a quick shot to a tasting.
