The Glencairn Glass

The Glencairn glass is revered in the whiskey world because it offers an experience that would otherwise have been missed. Its tulip shape concentrates the aromas of the whiskey, and the crystal really shows off your dram's colour. It has a solid, sturdy base, and the crystal itself is thick, so it likely won't smash if you accidentally drop it on the floor or in the sink. In that sense, it is forgiving.I have tried other tasting glasses: Copita, Libbey, Denver & Liely,1920's Master Blender Glass, etc.But I always return to my Glencairns.They are elegant in shape and design and practical in how they function. It is a solid blend of both worlds. Two glasses with caps look particularly classy on the Glencairn flight tray with a jug.I have attached some pictures of my Glencairns with quality spirits inside, so you may better understand how the glass portrays the overall colour and look.I'd go so far as to say the Glencairn glass is a definitive "MUST HAVE" if you're even mildly interested in whisk(e)y. These serve both novices and veterans in good stead throughout their journey. These make perfect gifts, too. If you want a bit of extra luxury, go for the Glencairn cut crystal glass.

Perfect as a present stylish and good to see and use

A glass is a glass.Until you discover what you could be using to appreciate Scotch. Learn how to do this and get so much more from your dram.Enjoying and appreciating Scotch is simple, though the mid to upper echelons of fine scotch whiskey are far from that.This glass is sophisticated in shape. It has a fine quality feel and sits well as you hold the foot. The crystal is fine with no imperfections and let's you appreciate the colour of you tipple as you swirl it for nosing.You may question why a glass is important beyond the fact it is a vessel for liquid. To seek the answer you have to learn nosing and tasting. It is dead simple and very enjoyable given where the contents of the glass ends up.Treat yourself even if you know whiskey. This glass won't dissapoint.

Great for whiskey drinking with your whiskey stones

It's pretty pointless if you're just necking cheap scotch but if you appreciate good whisky and want to take the time to enjoy it, this will really help you get the most out of your tipple. I initially purchased one glass but was so impressed by its benefits, I quickly bought more, not wanting my whisky-loving visitors to miss out. They have all since acquired their own Glencairn glasses. In fact I would recommend buying the twin or four pack; it will save you money in the long run.Glencairn make this glass in two sizes so check which one you're getting before you're seduced by an apparent low price. You really don't want the mini glass, which is far too small to get your nose in, or to swirl the whisky properly.The standard 6 oz glass however has a bowl large enough for a generous measure with water or ice, if that's your pleasure, and still has enough room to move the whisky around. The neck is narrow enough to retain the aromas but not so narrow you can't get your nose in for a really good sniff. A lid is available separately, if required, and the glass is also manufactured in cut crystal, which looks nice but can make it difficult to judge the legs and colour of the content.

Nice shape. Bought as a gift but my husband said he would have preferred the larger version.

I have been drinking my single malts out a Glencairn glass for several years now. Some time ago one of the glasses finally broke so I bought this identical one as a replacement.It is simply the best glass for whisky. Nicely substantial compared to a standard sherry copita (as recommended by many experts) but of a similar shape, it brings out the best in your malt. I use them for other drinks as well, including sherry, port, brandy and rum.I typically pour my whisky in the glass, add a few drops of water and then leave it for 15-30 minutes. Perhaps it's just the anticipation, but that seems to help open up the flavours. Another interesting tip I heard from a distiller: chill your whisky well in the fridge, then heat up the glass under hot running water. Pour the water out but don't dry the glass. Then pour the chilled whisky in and give it a jolly good whirl. This really seems to open up the flavours a lot quicker than leaving it sitting in the glass.Every distillery I have visited in the last few years has served their tasters out of branded Glencairn glasses. Whisky belongs in these. If you want your bourbon on the rocks, look elsewhere.

Great gift idea, good quality, a bit smaller than expected, great shape and look