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Beer Glass Varieties in Australia

Beer Glass Varieties in Australia

Beer Glass Varieties in Australia

From the schooner glass to the yard glass, there are almost as many types of beer glasses as there are types of beer. Some glasses are produced by beer makers, and over the years have become collectors' items, while others, like the decorative German beer stein, are based on centuries of tradition. More commonly, beer glasses are designed to pour the regulatory amount of beer according to the laws of service, while also being easy to clean and stack, but harder to break.

In Australia, the beer glass varies both in size and name from state to state. In fact, a visitor to South Australia from any other state would probably get a shock after ordering what they thought was a 425ml schooner, only to have the equivalent of a 285ml middy (also known as a pot, half pint, ten ounce or handle in other states) served up. In each state, the size of beer glasses is governed by state regulations, and differs accordingly.

An expansion in the types of pubs and bars found in Australia has begun to change how beers are served and in which types of glasses.

Belgian - Flute

The Belgian Beer bars are a great example of this. Belgian Lambic and fruit beers are served in flutes similar to champagne flutes, while ales can be served up in thistle or tulip shaped glasses made from thinner glass.

Other glasses have grown in popularity also.

Bavaria - Weizen Glass

The weizen glass for wheat beer from Bavaria, are long, elegant glasses that start from a narrow base, widening at the mouth, much like a small vase. Pilsner glasses are also similar in shape, but are slightly broader at the base, narrowing one-third from the base, and then widening at the mouth. These types of beer glasses offer a pleasant beer-drinking experience, often being made from thinner glass than the traditional pub variety.

Irish - Pint and Half Pint

The rise of the Irish-style pub in Australia has also seen an increase in the use of pint and half-pint glasses in varying types, from the more traditional British dimple style pint jug, to the conical or nonic print glasses made from thinner glass.

British - Pint Glasses

In general, British pint glasses tend to have a wider mouth than European styles, and this is based on tradition as much as the type of beer served within them. British ales are top fermented and use a different variety of yeast than lagers, which are better suited to the colder climates of Bavaria, Germany and other parts of Europe. Lagers are bottom fermented and need to be stored in a cold area (such as caves) in order to develop in the right way.

Over the centuries, beer glasses have been developed to improve the flavour of beer, as well as its head, carbonation and look. Why not take a leaf from the experts' books, and try pouring your favourite beer into its ideal glass. We're sure you'll appreciate the difference the perfect glass can make.