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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
- 57/m: Love beer, but it doesn’t love me as much anymore
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- Does anyone else get treated like a beer snob for ordering literally anything that isn’t a macro lager?
- 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 the Etiquette of Beer Glassware: A Guide to Refusing with Grace
When enjoying a night out at a restaurant or pub, many beer enthusiasts have likely encountered a situation where the chosen brew is served in less than ideal glassware. Recently, during a dinner with colleagues, I found myself in such a scenario when I ordered a hefeweizen, only to be presented with it in a standard pilsner glass. While this may seem like a minor detail to some, beer aficionados understand that the glass shape significantly impacts both aroma and flavor.
A proper hefeweizen glass not only enhances the drinking experience by allowing the distinct scents to concentrate and providing optimal head formation, but it also adds to the visual appeal of the beverage. However, sitting at a table with coworkers who may not share the same passion for beer could create a dilemma — how to address the glassware issue without causing discomfort or coming across as overly particular.
In that moment, I chose the path of least resistance. Despite the knowledge that the beer would have tasted better in its intended glass, I opted to enjoy my drink without making waves. Yet, as I glanced behind the bar, I spotted the very wheat beer glasses that had been bypassed for my order, which only added to my frustration.
This experience brings up an important question: what’s the best approach to declining a drink served in an inappropriate glass without upsetting the atmosphere at the table?
Tips for Addressing Glassware Concerns Tactfully
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Be Polite and Gracious: When addressing the situation, maintain a friendly demeanor. A simple, “Excuse me, would it be possible to have this served in a hefeweizen glass?” can be very effective.
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Express Enthusiasm Over Preference: Frame your request as a preference rather than a complaint. You might say, “I really enjoy hefeweizens, and the correct glass really enhances the flavors. Would you mind switching it out?”
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Inquire Playfully: If you feel comfortable, you could add a light-hearted comment, like, “I’m a bit of a beer geek; I just can’t help but want it in the best glass possible!” This can lighten the mood and make your request feel more casual.
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A Direct but Gentle Approach: If your colleagues are not well-versed in beer culture, you might explain briefly why the glass matters, which fosters understanding. A