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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 Glassware Etiquette: How to Politely Request the Right Glass
When dining out, one might think that the attention to detail stops at the menu, but for beer enthusiasts, the presentation is just as crucial as the taste. Recently, I encountered a situation that many beer lovers can relate to: I ordered a hefeweizen, only to have it served in a standard pilsner glass. While it may seem like a minor detail, the type of glass can significantly impact the overall experience.
A hefeweizen glass, with its unique shape, is designed to enhance the aromas and promote a proper head formation, ultimately elevating the beer’s flavor profile. However, surrounded by colleagues who might not share my passion for beer, I hesitated to send my drink back. I imagined the discomfort it could cause, not wanting to come off as fussy or pretentious. So, I chose to sip from the ill-suited glass, suppressing thoughts of how much better it would have tasted in the right one.
To my surprise, I later noticed that the bar was indeed stocked with the correct wheat beer glasses. This oversight left me wondering: what’s the best way to address such scenarios without creating an awkward atmosphere?
Many avid beer drinkers face similar dilemmas. It seems there should be a gracious way to request the appropriate glass without appearing overly discerning.
Here are some tips on how to handle this situation tactfully:
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Choose Your Moment Wisely: Instead of making a scene when the drink is initially served, wait until the server returns to check on your table. This way, you can make your request discreetly and maintain a relaxed vibe.
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Express Enthusiasm for the Beer: Frame your request positively by expressing excitement about the hefeweizen. For example, you might say, “I really enjoy this beer, and I know it tastes best in a proper glass. Would it be possible to have it in a hefeweizen glass?”
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Be Kind and Gracious: Remember, servers are human and can make mistakes. Approach the situation with a smile and a sense of humor. A friendly demeanor goes a long way in making everyone feel at ease.
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Utilize Humor: A lighthearted comment can break the ice. You could say something like, “I hate to be a glass critic, but I think this lovely hefeweizen deserves its own special glass