Types of Beer Glasses
- Pint glasses are typically used for beers poured from a tap, as a bottle of beer won't fill up a standard pint. In the U.S., a pint glass holds 16 ounces of liquid. In the UK they serve draft beers in a 20-ounce pint, known as the imperial pint. Keep your eyes peeled for U.S. bars that use the imperial pint system. They usually charge the same as a standard bar, but you get a little extra beer.
It's unlikely that your pint glass will be completely full of beer if it is being poured from a draft. The beer's foamy head can take up an ounce or so of space, so you won't actually be drinking 16 ounces of brew. If you're not in the mood for 16 full ounces, many bars offer smaller half-pints. - Pilsners are a variety of pale beer and are typically poured in a elongated 10- to 12-ounce pilsner glass. Many bars in the U.S. serve wheat and white beers in a pilsner glass.
- These festively decorated traditional German mugs are cherished as collector's items in some circles. A traditional beer stein is crafted from porcelain or silver. Many of these steins come with a lid that opens with a small thumb lever. This lid was developed by 15th century German drinkers who wanted to keep bugs out of their drink. If you buy a beer stein, make sure it is safe to drink out of before pouring yourself a brew. Some of these are only for decoration and can contain lead paint or other hazards.
- Many brewers issue signature glasses that are supposed to highlight specific flavors or attributes of their product. Stella Artois is typically served in a chilled chalice. The chalice has a stem like a wine glass, which lets drinkers avoid warming the beer with their hands. Chimay, a Belgian label with a high alcohol content, is meant to be sipped from one of the company's signature goblets.
- A typical beer mug holds 12 ounces of liquid, making it ideal to use when drinking from a bottle. Mugs differ from pint glasses in that they have a handle.
