What is the correct glass for drinking gin?

Answered by Louis Krause

The perfect glass for drinking is a stemmed gin glass, also known as a Copa glass. This type of glass is specifically designed to enhance the experience of enjoying gin. The stem of the glass is sturdy and not too delicate, allowing for a comfortable grip while sipping your drink.

One of the key features of a stemmed gin glass is its large bulbous shape. This shape serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it allows for a larger capacity, accommodating a generous amount of your favorite gin. This is important because it gives you the freedom to experiment with different gin-to-tonic ratios and customize your drink to your liking.

Moreover, the large capacity of the glass leaves ample room for adding chunks of ice. Adding ice to your gin helps to chill the drink, making it more refreshing. It also helps to dilute the gin slightly, which can enhance the flavors and make it more enjoyable to drink. The Copa glass provides enough space to accommodate a good amount of ice, ensuring your drink stays cool for longer.

Another crucial aspect of the Copa glass is its ability to trap the aromas of the gin. The wide bowl-like shape of the glass allows the aromas to concentrate, making it easier for you to fully appreciate the complex and nuanced scents of your chosen gin. The aromas play a significant role in the overall taste experience, so by trapping them in the glass, you can fully immerse yourself in the sensory journey of drinking gin.

To further enhance the aroma and flavor profile of your gin, the Copa glass also leaves room at the top for a generous garnish. This can be anything from citrus slices to fresh herbs or even a combination of different fruits and spices. The garnish not only adds visual appeal to your drink but also imparts its own aromas and flavors to the gin, further elevating the drinking experience.

In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have found that using a stemmed gin glass truly enhances the enjoyment of gin. The combination of the large capacity, ample space for ice and garnish, and the ability to trap aromas creates a well-rounded drinking experience. It allows you to fully appreciate the nuances and complexities of the gin, making each sip a sensory delight.

The stemmed gin glass, or Copa glass, is the ideal choice for enjoying gin. Its sturdy stem, large bulbous shape, and ability to trap aromas make it a versatile and enjoyable glassware option. Whether you are a gin enthusiast or a casual drinker, investing in a good quality stemmed gin glass can elevate your gin-drinking experience to new heights.