The shape and texture of a glass is often fundamental to the sensory experience of a drink. And it's not entirely because of aesthetics. A good whisky will disappoint when had in the wrong glass whereas even a ho-hum bourbon can come bursting to life all because of the glass it is served in.
So, what are the best whisky glasses to buy? “Whisky tasting is a sensory experience that utilises our sense of sight, smell and taste. The best whisky glasses are the ones that have enough room for the whisky to move around and breathe. Master distillers and experts in the whisky industry prefer tulip-shaped glasses with tapered neck which allow a concentrated delivery of aromas to the nose through a narrow rim. A wider bowl and narrowerrim impact the intensity of aromas.An ideal glass should enhance desirable aromas and suppress the undesirable ones,” says Swati Sharma, Co-Founder - The Dram Club. So here are the top seven glasses to elevate your whisky drinking experience.
1. Glencairn Glass
This is the standard tasting glass used at most distilleries and not without reason. “It's the most ubiquitous glassware associated with whisky and whisky tasting, and can be found at almost every distillery in the world. This robust glass with a short and thick base makes it easy to swirl and then nose the whisky. The bulbous shape of the glass directs the aromas towards its narrow rim. The Glencairn is a must for every whisky geek,” adds Sharma.
Glencairn Glass is the most ubiquitous glassware associated with whisky
2. Rocks Glass
Also known as the old fashionedglass or the tumbler, this is the most commonly spotted whisky glass in bars. “This robust glass with a nice grip is the most macho of all whisky glasses. The wide base makes it ideal for adding big ice cubes or a nice swirl of your whisky. If you prefer your whisky on the rocks or with a dash of water this is the ideal glass for you,” says Manoj Jangid, Director Food & Beverage, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar. The plain design of the glass lets simple drinks speak for themselves. Use it for neat pours of whisky, or as a perfect vessel for whisky co*cktails.
