Your cart is currently empty!
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
- Botanist with Trader Joe’s Lemon and Elderflower Soda
- I’m one of the worlds leading buyers of craft gin in the world and a international spirit judge AMA
- I’m blown away…. By how let down I am by this Gin.
- The Botanist 22 Gin Review: Perhaps the most overhyped gin around
- Dear Gin manuafacturers, if you want me to buy your product, please list your botanicals.
Categories
Archive
Tags
Social Links
Navigating Beer Glassware Etiquette: How to Politely Request the Right Glass
When enjoying a night out at a restaurant, especially when indulging in specific craft beers, the right glassware can elevate the experience significantly. Last week, I found myself in a situation that many beer enthusiasts can relate to, and I’m sure others have encountered a similar dilemma.
After placing an order for a refreshing hefeweizen, my drink arrived in a standard pilsner glass. While this may seem like a minor inconvenience, the glass choice genuinely impacts the beer’s flavor and aroma. The unique shape of a hefeweizen glass is designed to concentrate the beer’s aromas and support an ideal head formation, making the drinking experience much more enjoyable.
As I sat with my colleagues, I felt hesitant to raise the issue. Many of them may think that all beer glasses serve the same purpose, and I certainly did not want to come across as pretentious or excessively particular. After a moment of internal debate, I chose to drink the beer as it was served, trying to disregard the fact that I knew it could have tasted so much better in the right glass.
What compounded my frustration was realizing later that the restaurant had the appropriate hefeweizen glasses available; the server simply opted for the one that was quickest to grab.
This brings up an important question: How can one tactfully address such situations without causing discomfort at the table? Here are a few discreet approaches to consider:
-
Casual Questioning: You might say something like, “Hey, would it be possible to try this hefeweizen in a wheat beer glass? I think it’ll really enhance the flavors.” This phrasing invites a friendly discussion rather than demanding a change.
-
Expressing Enthusiasm: Share your passion for the beer. For example, “I love hefeweizens, and I think they taste even better from the right glass. Could I switch to one of those?” This showcases your knowledge while also justifying the request.
-
Frame It as Curiosity: You could also ask, “I’ve heard that hefeweizens taste different based on the glass; do you think I could try it in a wheat glass?” By framing it as an exploration, you eliminate any notion that you’re being overly picky.
Ultimately, it’s completely reasonable to want your drink served in the appropriate glass to fully appreciate its intended flavor. Everyone deserves to enjoy