Mastering the Art of Whisky Tasting: Start with Understanding Glassware

Once you develop a preference on your whisky and are able to tell the differences between various kinds, it's worth familiarising yourself with the glassware. The shape of a whisky glass can affect the concentration of aromas when you are nosing the whisky, it can also affect the initial taste as the liquid in glassware of various shapes will hit your tongue differently. To truly appreciate the unique characteristics of whisky, it is important to understand the usage of different glassware.

Tulip Glass (also known as Copita glass)

As the name suggests, the tulip glass resembles a tulip, with a wide bowl that narrows towards the top to concentrate the whisky's aromas. The tall stem does not only add elegance, it also keeps the person’s hand and any distracting scents away from the nose. The tulip glass is an extension of a traditional Spanish sherry glass and was used by merchants during the Age of Discovery to taste whisky on the docks, hence it has a nickname called the "dock glass.”

Glencairn Glass

Glencairn glass is a modern take on the traditional tulip-shaped whisky glass. Named after the brand that specializes in making this type of glassware, Glencairn glass has become the go-to for whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs. Distilleries around the world use this glass to sample the whiskies during production, helping them to decide whether the spirits need to be matured for a longer time, whether it is ready to be bottled as a single cask, or should be blended with another liquid. The Glencairn glass has a similar bowl and narrowing rim as the tulip glass, but with a shorter, sturdier stem and a thicker body, making it more durable.

Old Fashioned Glass (also known as the rocks glass or lowball glass)

It is a classic whisky glass that is wider at the mouth, it might not be the best at capturing aromas, but it gives ample space for ice, as its name implies. For those who enjoy their whisky on the rocks, a set of Old Fashioned glasses is essential. Its sturdy, squat body also makes it ideal to be used for cocktails. The classic whisky cocktail, the Old Fashioned, is traditionally served in this type of glass.

Highball Glass (also known as the Highball tumbler)

It is a tall, cylindrical glass that is essential for making a refreshing Highball during the hot summer months. The slender body of the glass not only accommodates ice cubes, but it also provides space for non-alcoholic mixers to blend with the whisky. The Highball glass is a great choice for cocktails like the Highball, which typically feature a high ratio of soda water.

Now that you are acquainted with the whisky glasses mentioned above, it is up to you to choose the ideal glass that best suits your tastes and habits. The right glass can enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of each whisky's unique qualities.