What’s in a Glass? Why Your Whiskey Deserves the Right One

What’s in a Glass? Why Your Whiskey Deserves the Right One

Not all glasses are created equal—especially when it comes to whiskey. Whether you're nosing a single pot still or sipping a smoky single malt, the glass you use can completely transform the experience. From shape to thickness to how it feels in your hand, your glass can either elevate a tasting… or flatten it.

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular whiskey glasses—and how each one holds up when it’s time to pour something special.

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🥃 The Glencairn Glass

The classic. The reliable. The industry standard.
Invented in Scotland but now synonymous around the world, the Glencairn is designed with purpose: the tulip shape channels aromas to your nose, while the solid base sits comfortably in your hand.

Pros:

• Great for nosing and sipping
• Widely available
• Dishwasher safe (hallelujah!)

Cons:

• Is very strongly associated with Scotch (we are clearly not biased at all...)
• Looks a bit too serious at a casual BBQ
• Can feel small in larger hands

Best for: Anyone who wants to get nerdy with nosing and tasting.

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🥃 The Túath Irish Whiskey Glass

Ireland’s answer to the Glencairn—and proudly so.
Designed specifically for Irish whiskey, the Túath (pronounced “too-ah”) has a wide bowl to let the spirit breathe and a narrow chimney to focus aromas. The curved base and thumb rest make it easy to hold—and impossible to mistake for anything else.

Pros:

• Made for Irish whiskey
• Comfortable and modern in the hand
• Looks a bit more contemporary

Cons:

• Tends to roll when knocked over
• Less common outside Ireland

Best for: Irish whiskey fans (ahem, all of us) who want a tasting glass with national flair.

👉 Free Túath glass with all Father’s Day orders—shop now.

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🥃 The Norlan Glass

The disruptor. The designer’s choice. The ‘wow, what’s that?’ glass.
Double-walled and mouth-blown, the Norlan is equal parts style and science. It aims to marry nosing performance with a sleek, futuristic feel. It's a conversation starter—and a surprisingly good glass.

Pros:

• Keeps whiskey at temperature thanks to double wall
• Sleek and showy
• Good nosing performance

Cons:

• Pricey
• Doesn’t stack well in a cupboard
• Can feel a little too "techy" for traditionalists

Best for: People who want the Tesla of whiskey glasses.

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🥃 The Denver & Liely Whiskey Glass

For the design-conscious purist.
A hybrid of tumbler and tasting glass, this one’s handmade in Australia and looks beautiful on any bar cart. The wide base and tapering lip make it ideal for appreciating aroma and taste, while still feeling more like a ‘proper’ glass.

Pros:

• Feels premium
• Nice balance between form and function
• Holds a solid pour

Cons:

• Expensive and hard to find
• Not dishwasher safe

Best for: Whiskey lovers who appreciate form as much as flavour.

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🥃 So... What Glass Should You Use?

Honestly? The one you enjoy drinking from.

If you're sipping with friends on a Friday night, use whatever makes the moment feel good. If you're taking notes and diving into the detail, reach for your Túath, or Glencairn. The key is to find a glass that suits your style—whether that's all about aroma, aesthetics, or the simple joy of a slow sip.

And if you're not sure? Try a few out. After all, half the fun of whiskey is discovering what suits you. We are offering a free Túath glass with all orders placed before Fathers Day 15th June, but we have a limited quantity so get in quick!

👉 Free Túath glass with all Father’s Day orders—shop now.

👉 Free Tuath glass with all Father’s Day orders—shop now.