Which Glass for Which Beer? Beer Glass Guide

We all know it: a good beer deserves the right glass. But did you know that each beer style – blonde, IPA, stout, wheat – has an ideal glass to unleash all its aromas? And with the boom in craft beers, choosing the right vessel has never been more relevant!

Here’s a practical guide to beer glass shapes and their perfect pairings with your favorite brews.

 1. The Tulip Glass
Its bulbous shape, narrowing then flaring out, traps powerful aromas while highlighting the foam.
Perfect for:
• Belgian beers (Tripel, Dubbel)
• Hoppy IPAs
• Trappist beers and spicy brews

Glass recommendations: Spiegelau Tulip Beer Glass

 

2. The Pint (Pint Glass)

The classic straight pint glass is simple, perfect for easy-drinking beers. 

Perfect for:
• Pale Ale
• Bitter
• Lager
Glass recommendations: Can-shaped glass

 3. The Chalice or Snifter

The stemmed glass is ideal for powerful and complex beers, especially those aged in barrels.

Perfect for :

• Barleywine
• Imperial Stout
• Scotch Ale

Glasses recommendation : Zalto or Riedel Ouverture Series stemmed beer glass (below).

 

4. The Weizen Glass

Tall, rounded in the center and closed towards the top, it accentuates the fruity aromas and retains the foam.

Perfect for :

• Wheat beers (Witbier, Hefeweizen)
• Citrus-forward Beer

Glasses recommendation :The Black Label Weizen glass series from Ritzenhoff

5. The Pilsner Glass

Long and narrow, it enhances color and effervescence.

Perfect for :

• Pilsner
• Lager
• Light blonde

Glasses recommendation : LSA Pilsner beer glasses

6. The Universal Glass

This versatile glass, often shaped like a slightly open tulip, is designed to suit most beer styles. It will never replace specialty glasses, but it's a great choice for those who don't have a full cabinet!

Perfect for :

• Blonde beer, red beer, IPA, white beer
• Occasional tasting

Glass recommendation : Teku or the Malto glass, exclusive to Vinum

7. The Tasting Glass

Small size(100 to 200 ml), it is designed to explore the nuances of a beer without drinking a large quantity.

Perfect for :

• Tastings of strong or sour beers
• Beer festivals
• Aged beers

Glass recommendation : Teku Mini tasting glasses

Pro Tip: How to Serve Your Beer Properly

• Always rinse your glass with cold water before serving
• Pour slowly, tilting the glass at a 45° angle.
• Adjust the temperature according to the style (cool for blondes, a little more temperate for stouts and strong beers)

In conclusion:

Choosing the right glass for each beer extends the enjoyment. Whether you're a fan of local Quebec beers or European classics, you deserve a complete experience.