Glencairn Whisky Glass

The Glencairn Glass is a style of whisky glass developed by Glencairn Crystal Ltd, Scotland. Originally designed by Raymond Davidson, Managing Director. The shape of the glass is derived from the traditional nosing copita used in whisky labs around Scotland. The glass design was concluded with the aid of Master Blenders from five of the largest whisky companies in Scotland.

The glass first came into production in 2001 and since then it has been supplied almost exclusively to the whisky industry, with only a limited number of bars, restaurants and retailers being supplied.

The glass is approximately 115mm in height and is available in both 24% Lead Crystal, Lead Free Crystal and Soda Lime Glass. The vast majority of glasses in circulation are of the Soda Lime variety.

In 2006 the glass was given the Queens Award for innovation. [http://www.queensawards.org.uk/business/Winners/2006.html#innovation]

The Glencairn Glass differs from other glasses in that it is was designed entirely for whisky. Old fashioned Tumblers and nosing copitas are the two glasses most commonly used for drinking whisky.

The traditional style of whisky glass is a cut crystal old fashioned whisky tumbler. This iconic style of glass remains the most commonly associated style of whisky glass. This style of glass does not however enhance the whisky by any means. The wide straight bowl and mouth does not focus aromas and detracts from the appreciation of any flavours.

There are numerous styles of Glasses available that are designed to enhance the appreciation of whisky. The Glencairn Glass is the first style of glass to be endorsed by the whisky industry and members of the SWA (Scotch Whisky Association) and used by every whisky company in Scotland.

References

External links

* [http://www.peatfreak.com/art-whisky-nosing-tasting.php choosing a whisky glass]
* [http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/glasgow_and_west/4927354.stm BBC News reports Glencairn receive Queens Award]
* [http://www.freepatentsonline.com/D459156.html Glencairn Glass Design Patent]