Setting up a home bar is not only about what beers you have on tap. What you serve them in is pretty important as well. People who are new to the beer scene may think that all those different styles of glassware out there are just a marketing gimmick. However, the various beer glass styles available are created for a reason, because they enhance the flavor of the beer. 
Pint Glass
We’re starting you off easy with a glass you’re probably familiar with – the pint glass. There are multiple types of pint glasses but we’ll stick to the American pint, or shaker glass. It has a nearly cylindrical cone shape and will usually hold either 16 or 20 oz. When in doubt, this glass will probably be appropriate.
(Good for: American ales, American stouts, American lagers, light beer, English ales, Witbier, cream ale, and more.)
Flute Glass
The flute glass is known for serving champagne. What may surprise you is that some beers are best served in a flute, oftentimes with a slightly shorter stem than the traditional flute glass. This tall and thin glass enhances carbonation and provides a quick release for volatiles which provides an intense aroma.
(Good for: Bock, fruit lambic, Vienna lager, American wild ale, Czech pilsners, and more.)
Pilsner Glass
Tall, slim, and tapered, the pilsner glass is generally used to serve light beers but it’s also intended to be filled with pilsner. This glass will showcase color, clarity, and carbonation while maintaining a good head.
(Good for: Light beer, pilsner, European pale lager, and more.)
Weizen Glass
A wheat beer glass, or Weizen glass, is perfect to serve any wheat beers in. This German glass is tall, thin, skinny at the bottom, and larger at the top. It provides a little extra room for the foamy head produced by the style. If you must have lemon or orange slices for garnish, know that the citric acid will kill the head.
(Good for: American wheat ale, German beer, Weizenbock, Hefeweizen, and more.)
Glass Mug
Heavy, thick, and strong, a glass mug is safer to clink together with friends than most other glassware and is thusly, more fun. A glass beer mug is usually large with dimples and a handle. The textured glass makes it more difficult to appreciate the appearance of the beer, but the wider mouth will release the aroma and make for easy drinking.
(Good for: American, English, and German lager, stout, ale, and more.)
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to stocking your bar with the proper glassware. But if you start with a collection of these five types, you’ll be off to a good start. It’s easy to find all of these types of glassware in stores and online, but try your local restaurant supply house if you’re looking to stock up on these or other essentials at very affordable prices.
You can always call Clean Beer to help you out. We’ll be there when you need your lines cleaned or new taps installed so that your beer is always cold, fresh, clean and ready to pour. Contact us if you have any questions.
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