Beer glasses. You’ve seen them in your friend’s freezer keeping nice and frosty, but what do they do besides add more dishes to your dishwasher?
Studies show that the shape of a glass can impact a beer’s head development and retention. The foam created by pouring a beer acts as a net to trap its unique volatiles, which evaporate to create the beer’s aroma. Volatiles range from hop oil, alcohol, fusels and spices.
There are almost 20 different styles of beer glassware and all of them compliment a style of beer in some way. So which should you use for your favorite beer? Here’s a short list of styles you can pick up at Spec’s!
Pilsner
Perfect for a more elegant evening, the typical pilsner glass is tall, sleek and slender. It is tapered towards the bottom to show off the color and sparkly carbonation of the beer, while the broad top helps maintain the beer head and enhance volatiles.
Pilsners & Light/Medium Lagers
Pint
Available in a variety of shapes, the American pint glass is probably the most common of all beer glassware. Also known as the shaker pint, it was originally used by bartenders to mix cocktails. This style is easy to drink from, sturdy, affordable and stackable, making it easy to store.
Pale Ales, Porters, Stouts & IPAs
Tulip
Arguably the best glass for beer drinking, the tulip glass enhances volatiles, supports a foamy head, allows plenty of room for the beer to aerate and features a stem to keep the beer cool and out of your warm hand.
Belgian Ales, Double or Imperial IPAs, Scottish Ales & Saisons
Mug
Beer mugs are the best to use when the occasion calls for a “Cheers.” They are heavier and sturdier than other glasses, feature a convenient handle and can hold a large quantity of beer.
Dark Lagers
