There's nothing wrong with cracking open a cold one and drinking straight from the can. Sometimes that's exactly what the occasion calls for. But if you've ever poured that same beer into a glass and thought it tasted a little better, you're not imagining things.
The right glass can make a surprising difference to your beer-drinking experience. From bringing out aromas to showing off that beautiful golden colour, there's more to glassware than just having somewhere to pour your beer.
So, what's actually happening when you swap the can for a glass? Let's get into it.
Your Nose Does More Than You Think
Ever noticed how a beer can smell completely different from how it tastes? That's because aroma plays a huge role in how we experience flavour.
When you pour beer into a glass, you introduce it to oxygen and create a layer of foam, helping release aromatic compounds. Those aromas travel towards your nose, allowing you to pick up on everything from floral hops and citrus to toasted malt and subtle spices.
Drinking directly from a can or bottle limits that experience. Your nose doesn't get quite the same opportunity to take in all those aromas.
In other words, pouring your beer into a glass gives your senses a little more to work with.
It's Not Just About Looks
Let's be honest: a freshly poured beer just looks good.
Whether it's a pale golden lager, a deep amber ale or a hazy, hop-forward brew, drinking from a clear glass lets you appreciate the colour, clarity and carbonation.
Those little bubbles rising through the glass aren't just there for decoration, either. Carbonation contributes to the overall mouthfeel of beer and helps carry aromatic compounds towards the surface.
And then there's the foam.
A nice, foamy head helps capture and release aromas while contributing to the texture of each sip. So don't be shy about giving your beer a proper pour. A little head is a good thing.
Does the Shape of Your Beer Glass Matter?
Absolutely. Different glass shapes can influence how you experience a beer by changing how aromas collect, how carbonation presents itself and how the beer reaches your mouth.
But you don't need an entire cabinet dedicated to specialty glassware to enjoy a good beer. A few reliable options will do just fine.
Here are a few ways to enjoy your next Beau's.
The Classic Pint Glass
There's a reason the pint glass is a staple at pubs, breweries and backyard gatherings. It's versatile, easy to hold and works well for just about any everyday beer.
Whether you're pouring a Lug Tread, a Beau's Lite or something a little hoppier, a classic pint glass gets the job done.
We've got both 16oz and 20oz options available, so you can choose your preferred pour.
The 32oz Stein
Sometimes a pint just isn't going to cut it.
The 32oz stein is for those occasions when you want to settle in and enjoy a little more beer. Its generous size and sturdy handle make it a classic piece of beer-drinking glassware.
The handle also means you're holding the glass without wrapping your hands around the beer itself, helping reduce heat transfer from your hands.
Perfect for a long afternoon, a backyard gathering or simply embracing your inner beer hall enthusiast.
The 20oz Can Glass
A little bit of fun, a little bit of function.
The can glass takes inspiration from the shape of a classic beer can while giving you all the benefits of drinking from glass. Its familiar shape makes it an easy everyday choice, while the open top gives your beer room to develop a proper head and release its aromas.
Plus, it's a pretty good way to show off your favourite Beau's beer.
Temperature Matters, Too
While we're talking about getting the most out of your beer, let's talk temperature.
There's a common misconception that beer should always be served as cold as possible. While a properly chilled beer is certainly refreshing, serving it too cold can actually mute some of its aromas and flavours.
A little bit of warmth allows malt characteristics, hop aromas and other subtle flavours to become more noticeable.
Different beer styles benefit from different serving temperatures, but the takeaway is simple: colder isn't always better.
Give your beer a moment to warm up slightly as you enjoy it. You might notice a few flavours you missed when it was ice cold.
How to Pour the Perfect Beer
Now that you've got your glass sorted, here's how to put it to good use.
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Start with a clean glass. Residual soap, grease or other residue can interfere with foam formation and carbonation.
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Tilt your glass. Hold it at roughly a 45-degree angle and begin pouring down the side.
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Straighten it out. As the glass fills, gradually bring it upright and pour into the centre to create a nice foamy head.
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Take a moment. Appreciate the colour, take in the aroma and enjoy that first sip.
That's it. No complicated equipment, no special training and absolutely no need to overthink it.
A Better Pour Starts with a Better Glass
At the end of the day, you don't need to be a beer expert to appreciate a good pour. Whether you're reaching for a classic pint glass, filling up a 32oz stein or cracking open a fresh can glass, the important thing is enjoying what's in front of you.
So next time you grab a Beau's, give the can a break and pour yourself a proper one.
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Cheers!