Using the proper beer glassware can make all the difference when enjoying your favorite brew. Most people associate beer glasses with just the common pint glass or beer mug. There is a whole world of different glasses for beer out there for each type of beer. One other thing to keep in mind is some breweries actually make glasses specifically for the different beers they brew. Here you can find a basic idea of which beer glasses to use for which beer.
Mug or Stein
This drinking vessel is usually thick, sturdy and has a handle. The sizes can vary but most sill stick to the same basic shape. This beer glass is most commonly seen in a local pub and usually can be heard being hit together for cheers. The Steins are usually made of stone or metal and have little lids that go over the mouth of the mug. This lid was developed during the Black Plague as a preventive measure for not allowing flies to fall into the beer.
Pint Glass (Tumbler)
This glass is almost cylindrical in shape and usually tapers wider towards the top of the glass. The bottom is usually a think solid glass base. The Pint Glass is probably the most common of glassware next to the mug. It is commonly used to serve drought beers in the U.S.A. This beer glass is usually 14 ounces but is known to come in a 20 ounce version to allow room for more head. Most light beers and ales are served in this glass.
Pilsner Glass
This beer glass is slender and tall. It opens more towards the top to allow for better head development. It is commonly referred to as being shaped like a trumpet. This glass provides a clear view to the beer so the drinker can enjoy the color and clarity of the beer. This glass is commonly used to serve a ale or lager.
Goblet
The goblet is a very diverse piece of glassware. It can be plain glass or it can be ordained with silver or gold trim around the rim. It is a sturdy and often thick glass piece. It has a base which leads to a stem and then the cupped glass top which holds the beer. This beer glass is commonly used to serve IPAs or more fragrant ales.
Weizen Glass (Wheat Beer Glass)
This glass as you can guess is usually used to serve wheat beers. The glass is somewhat similar to the pilsner glass but has a more open bottom. The base of this glass is often thick glass to support the rest of the tall glass. It helps to convey the often fruity and floral fragrance of wheat beers. The most common beer served in this glass is Blue Moon. This glass as you can guess is usually used to serve wheat beers. The glass is somewhat similar to the pilsner glass but has a more open bottom. The base of this glass is often thick glass to support the rest of the tall glass. It helps to convey the often fruity and floral fragrance of wheat beers. The most common beer served in this glass is Blue Moon.