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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
- No Stupid Questions Wednesday – ask anything about beer
- 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 Beer Etiquette: How to Politely Address Incorrect Glassware
When dining out, the details matter—especially when it comes to enjoying a well-crafted beer. Recently, I faced a situation that many beer enthusiasts might understand all too well. While out for dinner with colleagues, I eagerly ordered a hefeweizen, only to receive it in a standard pilsner glass instead of the appropriate wheat beer glass.
While this may seem trivial to some, the truth is, the glassware plays a crucial role in the beer’s overall experience. The design of a hefeweizen glass is specifically crafted to enhance the aromas and support the beer’s characteristic frothy head. Unfortunately, drinking from the wrong glass can diminish these elements, and I found myself grappling with whether to speak up.
Surrounded by coworkers who may not appreciate the nuances of beer serving styles, I hesitated. I didn’t want to come off as the ‘high-maintenance’ diner who sends back drinks over minor details. So, I chose to sip my beer quietly while pondering how much more enjoyable it might have been in its intended vessel. To my surprise, I later discovered that the restaurant actually had the correct glasses available behind the bar—my server simply opted for convenience.
This experience raised an interesting question: how can one tactfully address such situations without creating discomfort among dining companions? I believe that there is a way to communicate preferences politely and respectfully. Here are a few strategies that might help:
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Express Appreciation First: Start the conversation by thanking the server and expressing your enthusiasm for the beer. A genuine compliment sets a positive tone.
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Use “I” Statements: Frame your request by focusing on your own preferences, such as, “I really enjoy hefeweizens and find that the traditional glass really enhances the flavor for me. Would it be possible to switch to one of those?”
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Be Casual: Sometimes, making your request sound laid-back can ease any tension. A simple, “Hey, I noticed you have the wheat beer glasses—would it be possible to try my hefeweizen in one of those?” can do the trick.
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Choose the Right Moment: If possible, address this when the server arrives for a check-in rather than interrupting them during a busy period.
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Make It About Preferences: Emphasize that it’s about your personal experience and preference rather than criticizing their service