Although beer may have existed long before, dating back as far as 2050 B.C., it has now become a thriving business. Market research shows that by 2025, the global beer market is expected to reach $689, 534 million. With this booming trend, there has been a rise in popularity in glassware styles as well.
If you chance upon brewery tours in Geelong, you will notice that for every type of beer, you get a different glass each time. This also holds true when you go to a bar and order a Pilsner or a German beer. So, you might wonder, do beer glasses really matter? If they do, why is it so important?
The simple answer is yes. Similar to wines, different beer glasses highlight and bring out different flavours and aroma in a beer. While temperatures also affect its taste, the right kind of glass can accentuate certain beer characteristics.
As with food, the presentation says much about a beer. If a beer looks enticing enough, you will more likely enjoy it and have an amazing experience in the process. Mix it with the right glass suited perfectly for its type and the feeling will become enhanced.
Beyond the visual presentation, the shape of the glassware also affects the results of the pour—the head retention and formation and the frothy foam on top. The foam helps to filter out volatiles (the compound that gives beer its aroma), and head retention is vital in developing that aroma.
Think of your glass as more than just a temporary container for your favourite drink. When chosen properly, the right kind of glassware can bring out the flavour, colour, and aroma of your drink, and can turn a run-of-the-mill experience into a one-of-a-kind one.
Below are the best beer glasses to complement your beer experience during a beer tour in Geelong:
Mugs
Most suited for: Irish Dry Stouts, Scottish Ales, American Ales and Lagers
Mugs are usually the first thing that comes to mind when you think of beer drinking. The glass mug has two purposes:
- Insulation: The mug’s handle lets the beer stay colder since the warmth of your hands does not affect its temperature
- Durability: The handled design and thick glass make it safer for loud, celebratory toasts and easier to maintain a firm grip
Pilsner Glass
Most suited for: Blonde Ales, Hefeweizens, American Lagers, and Pilsners, as well as Pale Lagers with lots of carbonation
As the name implies, these slender, tapered, and tall classic pilsner glass is perfect for Pilsners. These glasses can hold less beer than others, mostly about 10 to 16 ounces, and also suitable for other lighter beers. Although they vary in size, their skinny design efficiently highlights the beer’s clarity, carbonation, and colour. The wider top helps develop the flavour profile and aroma while maintaining the head.
Chalices or Goblets
Most suited for: Belgian IPAs, German Bocks and Maibocks, Belgian Dubbels, Belgian Ales, and beers with high gravity or alcohol by volume (ABV)
There are two reasons the chalice or goblet is perfect for those beers with high ABV:
- The glass shape allows the drinker to take deep sips and assess the flavour profile and aroma
- The wide mouth maintains the beer’s head
Other Types of Beer Glasses
- Steins
- Tulip or Thistle
- Weizen
- Snifter
- Stange
- Flute
- Pint
Wrapping up
Remember, it is all about knowing the right kind of beer glasses to use that will allow you to have an amazing beer experience. If you are inclined to learn about beer glassware, join one of our Geelong beer tours and find out more!