The Fancy Glasses You Should Use When Sipping Bourbon

We have already established that swirling your bourbon isn't just for show, as doing so allows the aromatics in this complex liquor to be released and more fully appreciated by the drinker. While the act of swirling on its own takes the experience of sipping bourbon to the next level, the very vessel this amber nectar sits in can enhance it all the more.

Thus the question emerges: what kind of glass are you supposed to use? In times like these, we turn to our experts for advice on these matters. Chris Blatner, Executive Bourbon Steward and founder of urbanbourbonist on Instagram, has a particular glass in mind. "My favorite glass is the Libbey Kentucky Bourbon Trail tasting glass," he says. "Its wider bowl and larger opening allow for more aromas to open up while still being funneled toward your nose when smelling and tasting the whiskey."

The shape of this glass allows you to appreciate the flavor difference between young and old bourbons, or simply the unique character of the bourbon you've selected all on its own. "I think the shape is conducive to a really great nosing and tasting experience," explains Blatner, as it guides the smells to your nose before, during, and after you take a sip of the bourbon. At the same time, its wider bowl and opening prevents the flavors and aromas from becoming too concentrated and overwhelming you.

The Libbey Kentucky Bourbon Trail tasting glass is not the only glass that will deliver a full nosing and tasting experience. Chris Blatner notes that glasses with characteristics similar to the Libbey Kentucky Bourbon Trail tasting glass, such as the Denver & Liely Bourbon glass, are also sure to deliver a positive experience. Generally speaking, if the glass has a large bowl and opening, the aromas of the bourbon will have plenty of room to bloom.

As with many culinary endeavors, sipping on bourbon is a multisensory experience, albeit one that is easily enhanced by a good glass. "The right glass enhances how the whiskey interacts with air, temperature, and even your grip, all of which can subtly affect perception," explains Blatner. Still, he emphasizes that even though some drinks and cocktails are best served in specific glasses, you should ultimately choose whichever glass allows you to enjoy the drink the most. "The key is to experiment with different glasses and find the one that gives you the best experience," he concludes.