Whiskey connoisseurs would agree with us when we say that each type of whiskey glass gives a different experience while sniffing and sipping our favorite spirit. This HomeQuicks article will provide brief information about the different types of whiskey glasses and their usage.
The word ‘whiskey’ or ‘whisky’ originates from the Gaelic words ‘uisce beatha‘, which means ‘water of life‘. When Europeans were unable to pronounce these words, they called it ‘fuisce‘, which sounded like ‘whiskey’.
Whiskey, a traditional drink that has many legends and folklore associated with it. Its history is equally interesting and pleasurable as its supernal consumption. You either like whiskey or you don’t. Another interesting fact that we came across in this respect, was that some people have the genetic ability to taste certain chemicals that this liquor contains. And if you happen to have this ability, you could actually describe its flavor as that of a ‘burnt ass’. However, we kept wondering how would anyone know what a burnt ass tastes like?
Aficionados of this classic traditional liquor absolutely understand that unlike water, which can be poured into any container and consumed, whiskey needs to be poured in the right glass, to explore its multifarious effects. True whiskey lovers not only sip and swallow, but also enjoy exploring its aroma, flavor, and the effects it has on one’s senses. Too strong a flavor may numb the senses, while diluting excessively could also ruin the flavor of the drink. It is suggested to add just a little splash of soft, still spring water; it heightens the flavors and aroma of the whiskey perfectly.
Types of Glasses for Your Whiskey
There are different types of glasses used for reveling whiskey. Each glass has a different purpose. While some are efficient in putting across this spirit’s redolence, some are designed to enhance its flavor. Glasses are being designed continuously, as per the observations made by experts, to make the drinking experience as pleasurable as possible. Here, we have enlisted a few commonly-used whiskey glasses, and their respective roles in enhancing the intake of this classic beverage.
Old-fashioned Glasses
Though they may be called ‘old-fashioned’, they are amongst the most preferred glasses, especially for those who prefer their whiskey neat. These glasses are fairly simple-looking, with no designs or curves. The plain transparent body and thick base makes this glass ideal for the ardent admirers, who wish to see the beautiful rivulets that form in the glass while the drink is swirled. The thick base is ideal for the usage of muddlers, thereby preventing any form of breakage. These glasses have a wide brim, allowing the drinker to engage in the aroma and flavor of the whiskey. They are also known as lowball glasses.
Rocks Glasses
Rock glasses are ideal for those who like their whiskey ‘on the rocks’. These have a thick and rugged base to accommodate the additional volume created due to the ice cubes. Rock glasses are perhaps a modification of the old-fashioned glasses, with a wide brim that releases the aroma and flavor of the drink. While experts suggest that adding a lot of ice suppresses the flavor of the drink, and freezes the aroma, there are people who need to have these chilled ingredients to make their drink enjoyable. Adding one cube is considered to be somewhat acceptable by experts; however, if you enjoy your drink with many of those cubes, why bother!
Snifter Glasses
What would a glass that has ‘snif(f)’ in its name be made for. Yes, this tulip-shaped glass is made for those connoisseurs who want to swirl and sniff the heady whiskey aroma, pretty much like wine. The short stem enables the whiskey to stay aromatic and oxygenated, while the drinker swirls, sniffs, and sips through the glass. These glasses are ideal for those who evaluate each and every element in their whiskey before relishing it in the true sense of the word.
Glencairn Glasses
These are perhaps the most popular glasses due to their unique and inviting appearance. If a single malt whiskey is ‘the’ drink for you, then this is the glass you must use to savor it. The shape of this glass is specifically designed by inventor Raymond Davidson, who was inspired from the copitas. The curvy and narrow upper portion of the glass helps bring the piquant aroma to the nose, while the wide bottom of the glass keeps the flavors alive.
Shot Glasses
Though these would instantly remind you of tequila shots, they enable whiskey lovers to enjoy each serving with an exaggerated zeal. Different individuals have their own tastes and preferences. While some want to relish the drink slowly and steadily, there are some whiskey enthusiasts who just indulge in it with a whole lotta craze, slamming these glasses on the bar counter as they enjoy the drink sky-high. These glasses have a thick base, are strong and sturdy, and have limited capacity to prevent the drinkers from going overboard.
Tumbler Glass
The opposite of shot glasses are the tumbler glasses that are also known as highball glasses. These are ideal for the creative and experimenting whiskey drinkers, who like a dash of different elements to be mixed with their whiskey. Be it fruit juices, other spirits, or any other ingredient, these tall glasses have enough room to accommodate the final concoction. The thick base prevents the glass from damage due to the muddler used in the process.
There are many variants of the aforementioned whiskey glasses that come in different shapes, textures, designs, and sizes. In fact, the fancy options that you have in the market these days, makes these an ideal gift option for all whiskey aficionados. If you know how they like their drink, you’ll know what type to buy. On the other hand, if you have never explored how glasses can change your whiskey-drinking experience, you might as well give it a shot after understanding the fact that when it comes to liquor, glasses are more than mere containers.