Telling Bourbon

Since the beginning of bourbon, drinkers have sipped out of Old Fashioned tumblers and snifters. Then along came the concept of a copita already used for sherry tasting in Spain. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the copita was known as the "dock glass" because merchants used it to smell wines and spirits dockside. 

It was 1981 when Raymond Davidson of Scotland hit on the idea of designing the perfect bourbon crystal. In 2001 it came into production. The Glencairn glass is perfect for bourbon tasting, which is why it has won the endorsement of the Scotch Whisky Association and the Council of Whiskey Masters and is used by spirits professionals around the world.

The capacity of a Glencairn glass is 6 fluid ounces intended to hold 1.7 fluid ounces of drink. It’s tulip-shaped bowl is smaller than a traditional snifter and fits ideally in the hand. The tapered neck captures bourbon aromas. The flared rim is to allow unwanted alcohol vapors to escape. Nosing and tasting are the two activities bourbon tasting involves. The bowl is large enough to swirl the bourbon and the clear glass enhances the visual experience. As well, the flared rim allows the bourbon to pour onto the tongue at a broader angle…all the better for tasting.

In 2006 across the pond, the glass won the Queen’s Award for innovation.

Here’s one thing we know at Onyx & Amber…it’s that our specially crafted bourbon tastes superb whether out of Glencairn crystal or a makeshift mason jar. It’s the drink that matters in the end.