Just as there are many different varieties of beers, there are many different types of glasses in which to savor those beers. Pint glasses, tulip glasses, goblets… It might seem overwhelming to have such an array of glassware, but the type of glass you sip out of really does affect the aroma and flavor of the beer (and your enjoyment of it!).
The shape of glassware changes how you experience a beer’s color, smell and taste, plus it can also have an impact on head development and retention. Drinking red wine out of a champagne flute just wouldn’t feel or taste right; in the same way, drinking an imperial stout out of a weizen glass wouldn’t do that beer justice.
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the most common beer glassware – and some of the beers you can enjoy in them.
Pint Glass
This one should be familiar to you since it’s one of the most common in the United States. The pint glass has an almost cylindrical shape with a wide top. It typically holds 16 ounces (though there is a 20-ounce version) and is versatile to use for many ales, IPAs, stouts and lagers.
Pilsner Glass
This tall, thin, straight glass is designed for pilsners and lighter beers, including light lagers and bocks. It usually holds less liquid than a regular pint glass, and its slim shape has a wider mouth to help maintain the beer’s head.
Weizen Glass
A weizen glass, true to its name, is intended for wheat beers. It has a slender, elegant shape – similar to a pilsner glass – that curves as it reaches the top to retain a substantial foamy head. It generally contains at least a half-liter of beer.
Tulip
A tulip beer glass resembles the flower, with a thin, short stem and a bulb-like body and a curved lip. The tulip glass’ design also cultivates a foamy head and strong aromas. It’s ideal for stronger beers, such as Scotch ales, barleywines and double IPAs.
Goblet
A goblet (or a chalice) adds some visual drama to the beer drinking experience. It has a big, bold profile, with a thick stem and a wide, deep bowl; it may even contain a decorative gold or silver rim. Heavier, maltier beers are often served in goblets; for example, Belgian-style ales.
Stange Glass
The stange glass is a tall, straight and slender glass. It’s perhaps the most unassuming in appearance of all the beer glasses, but it’s perfect to bring out subtle and delicate flavors. It’s used for beers ranging from German kölsch to fruity lambics.
Nucleated Glass
Glassware that is nucleated is meant to enhance the IPA drinking experience. Basically, the bottom of the glass is etched, usually with a logo (like ours). This etching excites the bubbles and produces a more stable head.
Take home your own glass and show off your Dogfish Head support. Mugs, pint glasses, and snifters are available for sale with our logo at each alehouse. Look out for limited edition glasses at our events and limited time orders like our 20th Anniversary glass and Punkin Ale Pints.