Buying guide
Whisky Glasses: Glencairn, Tumbler or Copita?
Raise a dram on St Andrew's Day: which glass brings out the aroma, which suits whisky with ice, and how to add a drop of water.
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The shape of a whisky glass changes what you smell, and smell is most of what you taste. Different glasses suit different ways of drinking.
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We only list products once their specifications have been checked against the manufacturer or retailer. Until then, use the criteria in this guide to compare what's available.
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Types
| Glass | Shape | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Glencairn | Tulip bowl, short solid base | Nosing and tasting single malts neat |
| Tumbler (rocks glass) | Wide and heavy | Whisky with ice or mixers |
| Copita | Stemmed tulip | Tasting; the stem keeps the whisky cool |
Getting the most from a dram
- Add a few drops of water to open up the aroma, especially with cask-strength whisky.
- Swirl gently and nose from a short distance.
- Hand-wash fine glasses and avoid strong detergent smells.
For St Andrew's Day, serve with haggis, neeps and tatties. For storing the bottles, see storing and displaying whisky.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best glass for whisky?
For tasting neat single malts, a tulip-shaped glass such as a Glencairn concentrates the aroma. For whisky with ice, a heavy tumbler suits better.
Should I add water to whisky?
A few drops can open up the aroma, especially in strong whiskies. It is a matter of taste.
Can whisky glasses go in the dishwasher?
Many can, but hand-washing keeps fine glass clear and avoids detergent smells.
How we choose
BeneRecipes compares tools using manufacturer specifications and retailer listings. We have not tested these products ourselves and don't publish star ratings. We explain which type suits which cook and why.
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