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Steven Coulson
Steven has been drinking beers, wines and spirits for decades and has a propensity to go about them at length after a few drinks.
Latest Posts
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- Is there a polite way to refuse a beer that’s being served in the wrong glassware without making everyone at the table uncomfortable?
- # What’s the most pretentious thing you’ve ever said about beer that you secretly didn’t understand yourself?
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Navigating Beer Etiquette: How to Politely Refuse a Drink in the Wrong Glassware
When dining out, enjoying a carefully crafted beer can be a delightful part of the experience. However, I recently encountered a situation that made me pause—a dilemma that many beer enthusiasts may find themselves facing: how to tactfully address receiving a beer in the wrong glassware.
During a dinner outing last week, I ordered a hefeweizen, a type of wheat beer known for its refreshing taste and unique aroma profile. To my surprise, the server presented it in a standard pilsner glass, rather than the specially designed hefeweizen glass that enhances both the flavor and scent of this particular brew.
You might think this is a minor detail, but the correct glassware plays a crucial role in the beer-drinking experience. The hefeweizen glass is specifically shaped to trap the delightful aromas and support a lovely head, which contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment of the drink. Nevertheless, as I sat with my colleagues—who were likely unaware of the intricacies of beer selections—I hesitated to voice my concern. I didn’t want to come across as overly particular or, worse, disrupt the convivial atmosphere at the table.
Ultimately, I opted to enjoy the beer as it was served, consciously pushing aside thoughts of how much more flavorful it might have been in the right glass. It wasn’t until later that I noticed the bar had proper hefeweizen glasses in stock, which led me to realize that the server had simply chosen convenience over accuracy.
This experience begs the question: is there a respectful way to request a beer be served in the appropriate glass without making those around you uncomfortable?
If you find yourself in a similar situation, here are a few tips on handling it gracefully:
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Choose the Right Moment: Preemptively ask about glassware when ordering or at the time drinks are served. For example, you might say, “I’d love a hefeweizen, and if possible, may I have it in the traditional glass? It really enhances the experience.”
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Express Enthusiasm: Frame your request with excitement about the beer itself. This approach shows your appreciation for quality and can make your suggestion feel less critical. For instance, “I’m really looking forward to this hefeweizen—could I please have it in a hefeweizen glass? I find it does wonders for the aroma!”
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**Stay Positive