Chef & Sommelier
Whiskey glasses
A whisky glass is far more than just a container – it's the key to unlocking the aromas and subtleties of this noble spirit. Its shape, material, and design play an essential role in the sensory experience of each tasting. For whisky lovers, from the curious novice to the passion... A whisky glass is far more than just a container – it's the key to unlocking the aromas and subtleties of this noble spirit. Its shape, material, and design play an essential role in the sensory experience of each tasting. For whisky lovers, from the curious novice to the passionate connoisseur, choosing the right glass radically transforms the perception of flavors. Explore the world of whisky with us through this comprehensive guide. From tulip glasses to classic tumblers, discover how each model is designed to enhance your tasting and reveal the full aromatic richness of your precious spirits. Why the Choice of Whisky Glass is Essential: Tasting an exceptional whisky is much more than simply drinking it: it's a complete sensory experience where every detail counts. Among these details, the choice of glass plays a crucial role. Far from being a simple container, the whisky glass profoundly influences our perception of aromas, temperature, and all the taste sensations. Understanding this influence means giving yourself the opportunity to enhance every tasting. Concentration of Aromas: The shape of the glass is specifically designed to optimize the aromatic experience. A well-designed whisky glass allows you to: Release the aromas: A wide base promotes oxygenation and evaporation of volatile compounds. Concentrate the aromas: A narrower neck directs these aromas towards the nose, creating a true "olfactory chimney." Preserve the complexity: The tulip shape prevents the most subtle notes from dissipating too quickly. Without this specific design, the aromas of the whisky would escape into the air, losing intensity and richness. An inappropriate glass can thus mask up to 60% of the aromatic nuances of a great whisky. Temperature and Thick Base: The base of the glass plays a crucial role in maintaining the ideal temperature of the whisky: A thick base acts as a natural thermal insulator, slowing down the warming of the spirit. The mass of the glass, particularly for tumblers, stabilizes the temperature throughout the tasting. The solid base makes it easier to hold, preventing direct contact with the part containing the liquid. The ideal tasting temperature, around 18-21°C, is thus maintained longer, preserving the aromatic balance of the whisky without the heat of the hand disrupting this harmony. Overall Sensory Experience The complete sensory experience encompasses all aspects of the tasting. A glass specially designed for whisky allows you to fully appreciate its amber color, inhale its complex aromas, and savor its subtle flavors. The texture of the glass against the lips, its weight in the hand, and even its sound during a toast contribute to this multi-sensory experience. For an optimal experience, opt for a crystal glass which, due to its absolute purity, allows you to observe all the characteristics of your whisky without altering its appearance. Under these conditions, the glass disappears, leaving only the essential: the subtle nuances of your precious nectar. Different Types of Whisky Glasses Tulip / Glencairn The Glencairn glass is the preferred choice of purists and whisky tasting experts. Its characteristic shape, with a wide body and a narrow neck, is not accidental. It allows for optimal concentration of aromas while precisely directing the vapors towards the taster's nose. This tulip-shaped glass is particularly suitable for Single Malt enthusiasts who seek to dissect every aromatic nuance of their spirit. The flavor of the whisky is magnified thanks to this shape, which minimizes the harshness of the alcohol and enhances the most subtle notes. Its balanced weight offers a comfortable grip throughout the tasting. With a standard capacity of 175 ml, the Glencairn glass has become a global benchmark, to the point of being the only whisky glass to have received the prestigious Queen's Award for Innovation in 2006. For an analytical and refined tasting experience, it is the essential instrument. Tumbler glass: The tumbler glass, also called an "Old Fashioned" glass, is undoubtedly the most iconic of whisky glasses. Its robust and versatile shape makes it the ideal companion for whisky lovers who enjoy their drink "on the rocks" and for classic cocktails like the Manhattan or the Old Fashioned. Characterized by its straight sides and thick, heavy base, the tumbler glass offers perfect stability and a comfortable grip. Its wide opening is not designed to concentrate aromas but to easily accommodate ice cubes or cocktail ingredients. The thick base also allows you to muddle sugar and bitters without risk of breakage. Lovers of Bourbon and American whiskies will particularly appreciate this glass for its generous capacity (generally between 21 and 31 cl) and its timeless style that evokes the warm atmosphere of American bars. It is the quintessential glass for conviviality, ideal for a relaxing moment with friends. Copita glass with stem: The stemmed whisky glass, inspired by the world of Sherry wine, appeals to aesthetes seeking an elegant and precise tasting experience. Its shape resembles that of a small wine glass, with a tulip-shaped bowl resting on a thin stem. This model is prized by connoisseurs who appreciate the refined tasting of complex whiskies. The main advantage of this glass lies in its stem: by holding the glass by the stem, you avoid warming the whisky with your hand, thus preserving its ideal temperature and the integrity of its aromatic bouquet. The tulip shape of the bowl perfectly concentrates the aromas while offering optimal visual observation of the whisky's color. With an average capacity of 15 to 18 cl, this stemmed whisky glass is particularly recommended for rare whiskies and exceptional spirits whose nuances you wish to preserve. Tall glass / Highball glass: The highball glass, with its slender silhouette and straight sides, is the ideal choice for lovers of whisky-based cocktails. Taller than a classic tumbler, it is perfectly suited to long drinks such as Whisky-Soda, Whisky-Ginger Ale or the famous Japanese Highball. This highball glass, with its generous capacity (typically between 30 and 64 cl), allows for the addition of a substantial amount of ice, ensuring a refreshing drink that stays cold longer. Its tall, slender shape also beautifully showcases layered cocktails and garnishes such as citrus peels. The highball glass is particularly popular in Japanese culture, where the Highball (Japanese whisky mixed with soda water) has become a classic drink. Its versatility makes it essential for any whisky enthusiast wishing to explore the "cocktail" dimension of this spirit, while maintaining an elegant and contemporary presentation. Vintage square whisky glass The vintage square whisky glass immediately evokes the golden age of the 1950s and 60s and the aesthetics of television series like Mad Men. Its distinctive geometric shape with sharp angles and cut facets gives it a decidedly retro and sophisticated character. Prized by collectors and design enthusiasts, this vintage whisky glass offers a different grip than the classic tumbler. The facets cut into the glass create plays of light that highlight the amber color of the whisky, adding a visual dimension to the tasting experience. With an average capacity of 20 to 25 cl, this glass is particularly suitable for premium whiskies served with a large cubic ice cube, for a perfectly harmonious visual effect. The weight of the square whisky glass, generally heavier, adds to the feeling of luxury and quality during tasting. Crystal whisky glass The crystal whisky glass represents the pinnacle of elegance and refinement for discerning connoisseurs. Manufactured by Chef&Sommelier or Cristal d'Arques Paris, it stands out for its exceptional clarity, incomparable brilliance, and characteristic sound when clinked. Connoisseurs and collectors appreciate these whisky glasses for their ability to magnify the color of the spirit. The absolute purity of the crystal guarantees perfect observation without the slightest alteration, revealing all the nuances of the whisky's color. The thin walls also allow you to fully appreciate the texture and viscosity of the liquid. Often adorned with hand-cut patterns or precise geometric facets, these whisky glasses transform each tasting into an exceptional ritual. Their weight, generally heavier than that of a standard glass, adds to the feeling of luxury and quality. With capacities ranging from 20 to 30 cl depending on the model, they are designed to enhance exceptional whiskies and rare spirits. Crystal or high-performance glass: which material should you choose? The choice of material for your whisky glasses directly influences the tasting experience. Between the brilliance of crystal, the finesse of crystalline glass, or the robustness of high-performance glass, each option has distinct characteristics that deserve to be explored to find the perfect companion for your tasting moments. Advantages of Crystalline Glass Crystalline glass is considered the benchmark for exceptional glassware. It stands out for its incomparable brilliance, which magnifies the amber hue of your whisky. Crystalline glass offers absolute transparency, allowing you to fully appreciate the nuances of color in your spirit, from the most golden to the most copper tones. One of the major advantages of crystalline whisky glasses lies in their unique sound. This famous "crystalline chime" that resonates when two glasses clink together is an integral part of the tasting ritual. This distinctive acoustic quality adds an extra sensory dimension to the experience. Durability of High-Performance Glass The high-performance glass developed by Arc's experts represents a modern and particularly durable alternative. Designed for everyday use, it offers remarkable durability against the stresses of daily life. These glasses retain their transparency and brilliance even after hundreds of dishwasher cycles, a considerable advantage for regular use. The innovative technology used in the manufacture of these glasses gives them superior resistance to shocks and scratches. For whisky lovers who enjoy their drink "on the rocks," this robustness is particularly valuable when adding ice cubes or preparing cocktails. Some models offer up to 50% more resistance compared to market standards, thus guaranteeing excellent value for money in the long term. High-performance glass also has the advantage of being lighter than crystal, while maintaining excellent transparency. This lightness makes them easier to handle during extended tasting sessions. For perfect visual consistency on your table, these whisky glasses can be coordinated with other types of glassware, such as wine glasses from the same collection, creating an elegant and harmonious presentation for all your gatherings. Between tradition and innovation, the choice of material for your whisky glasses will ultimately depend on your priorities: the timeless brilliance of crystal or the durable practicality of high-performance glass. In any case, La Table d'Arc offers exceptional creations that will enhance every tasting experience. How to choose your whisky glass according to its use: Choosing a whisky glass is never insignificant. Its shape, size, and material directly influence your tasting experience. To find the perfect companion for your whisky moments, here is a practical guide adapted to each use and type of whisky. What is the capacity of a whisky glass? The capacity of a whisky glass varies depending on its type and use. Tasting glasses like the Glencairn generally hold between 15 and 20 cl, allowing you to fully appreciate the aromas while limiting the portion size. Tumbler or "Old Fashioned" glasses offer a more generous capacity, between 21 and 33 cl, ideal for cocktails or whisky with ice. For large highball glasses, expect up to 50 cl, perfect for long drinks. The choice of capacity will always depend on how you like to enjoy your whisky: neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail. Analytical Tasting For an in-depth tasting, particularly of a single malt whisky, opt for a tulip or Glencairn glass. Its wide base promotes oxygenation while its narrow neck concentrates the aromas towards the nose. The tulip glass is particularly versatile, and can also be used to taste other spirits. Essential characteristics: Thin walls to observe the color and legs Perfect transparency to appreciate the color Capacity of 15 to 20 cl, ideal for a tasting portion (3 to 4 cl) Stable base for swirling the whisky without risk This type of glass is preferred by Scottish and Japanese distilleries for professional tastings of single malt whiskies, allowing them to identify the most subtle notes. Cocktails and whisky on the rocks For whisky lovers with ice or classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, the tumbler glass is the standard. Its wide opening makes it easy to add ice cubes and its thick base allows you to muddle cocktail ingredients directly. Key features: Generous capacity (21 to 33 cl) to accommodate ice and ingredients Enhanced stability thanks to a thick base Comfortable grip Versatility for different preparations This large glass is particularly suitable for American bourbons and blended whiskies, whose more direct aromatic profiles tolerate dilution by ice well. It's the ideal choice for convivial moments with friends. Premium and luxury service For a high-end experience, especially with rare or aged whiskies, opt for a stemmed glass like a Copita or a crystal glass. These glasses combine elegance and technical performance for a refined tasting. Distinctive advantages: The stem prevents the whisky from being warmed by the hand The crystal offers a unique sound when toasting The exceptional brilliance enhances the amber color The thin walls reveal the aromatic nuances These glasses are particularly recommended for premium whiskies such as single malts aged in sherry or port casks, whose complex notes deserve a setting worthy of their quality. Personalization and gift ideas In the refined world of whisky, the choice of glass is just the beginning of the adventure. Discover how to transform a simple tasting into a memorable experience with our personalized solutions. Personalized whisky glass: screen printing A personalized whisky glass represents the perfect alliance between functionality and emotion. Our personalization options transform a beautiful object into a precious and unique keepsake: Screen printing is our preferred technique for delicately inscribing on glass: Elegant initials An important date (birthday, wedding) A company logo for business gifts A personal and touching message Ideal gift for whisky lovers Giving a personalized whisky glass is a way to show special attention to the passions of the person you want to spoil. For connoisseurs, opt for a set of Glencairn tulip glasses that will enhance the aromas of rare whiskies. For those who enjoy convivial moments, a set of sturdy tumblers will be more appreciated. You can also complement your gift with a book on French whiskies, which are currently booming, or a tasting workshop. The pieces in our collection are designed to suit all types of whisky enthusiasts, from the curious novice to the discerning collector. The ideal whisky glass gift is not only one that is beautiful, but one that matches how your loved one likes to savor the moment. Accessories and complementary items for whisky The world of whisky is not limited to the precious amber liquid and the glass that contains it. For a complete tasting experience, certain accessories have become essential for enlightened enthusiasts. These complements, both practical and elegant, enhance every tasting moment and preserve the quality of your spirits and glassware. Whisky Decanters The whisky decanter is a central element in the world of whisky. Beyond its undeniable aesthetic appeal, it plays a crucial role in the oxygenation of the spirit. Indeed, when whisky is poured into a crystal or high-quality glass decanter, exposure to air promotes the development of aromas. The first few hours after decanting are particularly conducive to revealing the most subtle notes. To preserve these qualities, choose a decanter with an airtight stopper and keep it away from direct light. Care and Storage of Your Glasses The durability of your whisky glasses depends greatly on the care you give them. For crystal glasses, particularly prized for their brilliance and resonance, hand washing is highly recommended. Use lukewarm water and a mild detergent, avoiding contact between the glasses to prevent scratches. Dry them immediately with a soft, lint-free cloth, holding the glass by the stem to avoid fingerprints. Storage also deserves your full attention. Store your glasses upside down on a suitable rack or in a closed cabinet to protect them from dust. To prevent the glasses from clinking together, using dividers or coasters between each glass is advisable. These accessories, available in cork, felt, or leather, add a touch of elegance to your collection while protecting it. If you own high-value glasses, consider a specific display cabinet with appropriate lighting that will highlight the transparency and reflections of your glassware, while keeping it protected from humidity and temperature variations. FAQ Where to buy a whisky glass? To find the perfect whisky glass, choose specialized tableware shops like La Table d'Arc, which offers a complete range of glasses suitable for every tasting experience. Don't hesitate to complete your collection with rum glasses to diversify your tasting moments and discover other exceptional spirits. Which glass to choose for tasting whisky? The choice of whisky glass essentially depends on your tasting style and the type of spirit. For appreciating a complex whisky like a Single Malt, opt for a tulip-shaped glass (Glencairn) which concentrates the aromas thanks to its narrow rim. For a more relaxed moment or a whisky with ice, the tumbler (Old Fashioned) with its thick base remains essential. The stemmed Copita glass, on the other hand, offers the advantage of preserving the ideal temperature of the beverage while revealing its aromatic subtleties. What is a whisky glass called? A whisky glass has different names depending on its shape and function. The most classic, the tumbler (or rocks glass), is often called "Old Fashioned" in reference to the eponymous cocktail. The tulip-shaped tasting glass is called "Glencairn," after its Scottish creator, who has become a benchmark for whisky lovers. There is also the "snifter" (or balloon glass), the "copita" with its elegant stem, or the "highball" for long drinks with whisky. Each name corresponds to a specific tasting experience and a particular use. What is the capacity of a whisky glass? The capacity of a whisky glass varies depending on its type and use. The classic tumbler (Old Fashioned glass) typically has a capacity of 200 to 300 ml, but is only filled with 30 to 60 ml for neat tasting. The Glencairn glass, a good whisky glass for connoisseurs, has a capacity of approximately 180 ml for a standard serving of 30 ml. Highball cocktail glasses can hold up to 350 ml to accommodate ice and other ingredients. The key is to leave enough space for the aromas to develop and circulate. Also discover Rum Glasses, Cognac Glasses, Shot Glasses, and Whisky Decanters.
