There are a variety of vessels available in the market to sustain a dram. Let us take a look at the most common glasses available in the market for Whisky.
Shot Glass –Glasses that are designed for a fairly singular purpose, and offer little opportunity to savor any complex notes or flavors in the drink. Great for a party, if you want to down a small amount of Whisky.
Tumbler – A flat bottom is what most tumblers today possess. Those who prefer their Whisky on the rocks or with water, this is the perfect glass, for there is plenty of room for the whisky to move and mingle with water / ice.
Highball – This is a tall glass in which mostly cocktails are served. The name of the glass has become synonymous with the word ‘Cocktail’.
Snifter – A wide glass with a round body & a tapered top to enjoy mostly brandy & whisky. The unique shape helps the liquid to breathe while concentrating aromas in the upper part. When the stem is held, the heat of holding it raises the temperature of the spirit, and encourages complex flavors and subtleties to emerge.
Glencairn Glass – This is one of the few glasses that have been designed specifically for whisky. Similar to a snifter, but with a wider base without a stem giving the glass more area to contact with the hand, allowing the temperature to develop throughout the drink; and a smaller rim, to trap all of the aromas released, to guarantee a powerful drinking experience.
Whisky glasses come in various shapes & sizes and are made of various materials. Distilleries & Festivals also offer glasses which can be bought and added to your collection. One needs to figure out the purpose and use them according to the occasion.
