Review: Best Beer Glasses

Beer Glass Buyer's Guide

There’s nothing wrong with drinking beer directly from a can. However, any self-respecting, self-proclaimed beer connoisseur knows to pour their beer into a glass for the all-inclusive sensory experience. But, not just any glass! Sure, you can dump that pale ale into a Mason jar with a cracked lip, but a glass’s shape and raw materials can make a great beer even greater, letting your eyes take in the color and carbonation before you take that first sip. A great glass will accentuate a beer’s aromatics and help the head hang around a little longer.

Don’t be ashamed if your knowledge of beer glassware isn’t equal to that of your local bartender; we’d be surprised if it is. That’s why we’ve created this quick guide on the best beer glasses for every style of beer. Our guide will teach you what you need to know so you can select the best beer glasses for you from our list above.

Why you need a beer glass?

It might be easy to ignore the significance of glass on beer until you experience the difference. It’s not just in the way it looks but also in the taste, aroma, and overall experience. Beer glasses have some features that boost the flavors of your beer. They are also designed to trap aromas and keep beer colder. Additionally, you would also avoid the metallic taste that comes with drinking from a bottle or a can.

What type of beer glass should you get?

There are many types of beer glasses and each type is suited to a specific type of beer. Some beer glasses are more versatile while some others are designed for only one kind of beer. The type of beer glass you should buy should depend on what you drink or plan to drink. Here is a list of the different types and what they are suited to so you can make an informed decision.

Pint, Pub, and Mixing Glasses

Pint glasses are the most common and are always there when a versatile glass is needed. They are suited to a variety of beers and can also be used to mix drinks.

Pilsner Glasses

Pilsner glasses typically taper gradually as they reach the top, lending themselves to smooth, easy drinkability. They are best for low to medium alcohol-level pilsners, ales, and lagers that are light, low on hop flavor, and stimulating.

Belgian, Tulip, and Goblet Beer Glasses

These beer glasses are more intricately designed and are suited to particular beers with complex tastes and aromas and are often darker and heavier than other varieties. For example, Belgian glasses are suited to Belgian ales. Tulip glasses are best for strong ales, lambics, Belgians.

Specialty & Novelty Glassware

Some beer glasses are specially designed and do not fit into one particular category. These glasses are usually versatile.

How heavy should a beer glass be?

This should be based on your own preference. Some people prefer the feel of heavy glasses while some find them uncomfortable. Whichever you prefer, you should make sure your glasses are of high quality and durable like those on our list.

Does the shape of the beer glass matter?

This feature affects the foam or head retention of the beer. Taller and thinner beer glasses are more likely to trap more bubbles, creating long-lasting foam over a smaller surface area. This will then lead to an improvement in the drink’s overall presentation.

How wide should the rim of the glass be?

The wider a rim is the faster the beer is drunk. Many people find it easier to drink from glasses with wider rims, especially for large gulps. However, a wide rim allows for increased exposure to air, which induces carbonation and leaves the beer to aerate quickly. If you would prefer for the foam to last longer, a glass with a narrower rim should be chosen.

What beer glass design should you choose?

This is a very exciting part of selecting a beer glass. There are so many designs available on the market so there is something for everyone. You can choose a novelty design that you prefer so that it can improve your experience. You can also go the other way and choose something that is sure to impress your guests. In all, make sure you are getting a good quality glass so that it lasts long.

Beer Glass FAQ

Q: Does using a beer glass prevent bloating?

A: When you drink directly from the bottle or can, all of the gas goes directly into your belly. If you pour your beer into a glass, some of the gas is released into the air, reducing the amount you consume and making you feel less bloated. Also, when you drink from the bottle you are more likely to chug which can also increase bloating.

Q: What is a beer head?

A: This is what the foam that’s on top of any beer is called. It is formed from the carbon dioxide in beer. Its size depends on the amounts of wort protein, yeast, and hop residue present in the beer.

Q: Does my beer glass need nucleation?

A: The nucleation point is an etching on the bottom of the beer glass. It enables the release of the beer's carbonation, releasing a steady stream of bubbles and maintaining a head on the beer. It improves the experience of drinking beer, especially on a hot day.

Q: What is the proper way to pour beer into a glass?

A: There is a proper way to pour beer out of a can or a bottle to get the most out of your beer. Prepare your glass by rinsing it with cold water. After preparation, tilt the glass at a 45-degree angle and pour the beer slowly so that the liquid lands directly in the middle of the side of the glass. Once you’ve poured about half of the beer into the glass, straighten the glass and pour the rest of the beer into the center. Pouring the second half of the beer this way will allow for an appropriate head of foam.