Beer Glass Sizes Explained: Choose the Right Glass for Your Favourite Brews

Beer has been a beloved beverage in Australia for centuries, with a rich history dating back to the country's earliest days. Whether enjoyed at a pub with friends, during a sporting event, or while grilling on a warm summer day, there's nothing quite like the refreshing taste of a cold beer in a glass. Beer glasses serve as a functional containers and enhance the beer's aroma, flavour, and enjoyment quotient. In this guide, we'll explore the popular Australian beer glass sizes, the styles of beer they're best suited for, and how to choose the perfect mirror for your favourite brew. So whether you're a casual beer drinker or a seasoned enthusiast, read on to discover the art of drinking beer from the right glass.

Quick Links

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Beer Sizes & Glass Types
• Buying Beer Glasses
• Caring for your beer glasses

Frequently Asked Questions

How many mls are in a schooner?

In Australia, a schooner is a type of beer glass typically holding 425 millilitres (or 15 fluid ounces) of beer.

How many mls are in a pint of beer?

A pint-size represents a beer glass typically holding 570 millilitres (or 20 fluid ounces).

Does beer taste better in a glass

Yes, beer tastes better in a glass. Drinking beer from a glass enhances the sensory experience, allowing the drinker to fully appreciate the beer's aroma, flavour, and appearance.

How many calories are in a glass of beer?

The number of calories in a glass of beer can vary depending on the type and brand of beer. On average, a standard 12-ounce (355 mL) serving of beer contains around 150 calories.

Beer Sizes & Glass Types

Several beer glasses are commonly used in Australia to serve different beer styles. Each glass has a unique shape and size that can significantly impact the beer's taste and aroma. For example, the shape of the glass can affect the amount of foam produced and how the beer's aroma is released. Similarly, the size of the glass can impact how quickly the beer is consumed and the perceived intensity of its flavour.

Some of the most common types of beer glasses used in Australia include pint glasses, tulip glasses, snifter glasses, Weizen glasses, beer mugs, stemmed glasses, and beer-tasting glasses. Each of these glasses is designed to enhance a specific style of beer, whether a light lager, a hoppy IPA, or a full-bodied stout.

Understanding the different types of beer glasses and their purposes can help you choose the right glass to elevate your drinking experience. In the following sections, we'll look at each type of glass, how they impact your beer's flavour and aroma, and which beer styles best suit you. So please sit back, pour yourself a cold one, and let's explore the world of beer in a glass or many.

Schooner size

A schooner, one of Australia's most popular beer glass sizes, is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a refreshing beer without committing to a whole pint. With a capacity of 425 millilitres (or 15 fluid ounces), a schooner of beer strikes a balance between a smaller, more manageable size and a generous serving.

While the origins of the schooner are partially clear, it is believed to have originated in Britain and been used for serving various drinks, including ale, sherry, and port. Today, the schooner is primarily used in Australia for serving beer, particularly in New South Wales and Queensland, where it is popular in many pubs and bars.

Advantages

One of the advantages of a schooner of beer is that it allows beer drinkers to sample various beers without committing to a whole pint. It's also a perfect size for those who want to enjoy a beer with a meal or a snack without overindulging. Additionally, schooner glass is often cheaper than a pint glass, making it an economical choice for consumers.

Pint Size

The pint of the most popular Australian beer sizes and an iconic symbol of the beer-drinking experience, and it's easy to see why. With its perfect shape and size, the pint glass is ideal for enjoying a cold, refreshing beer. In Australia, the standard pint size is 570 ml of liquid, making it a popular choice for pubs and bars nationwide. Pint glasses are famous for their simplicity and versatility, as they can be used for various beer styles. It's also important to note that two types of pint glasses are commonly used in Australia: the Imperial Pint and the American Pint. The Imperial Pint is the traditional British pint glass and holds 20 ounces (568ml) of liquid. On the other hand, the American Pint holds only 16 ounces (473ml) and has a slightly different shape, with a more pronounced taper towards the top.

Advantages

The durability, ease of use, and ability to showcase the colour and clarity of the beer are among the many advantages of a pint glass size. One of the advantages of using a pint glass is its capacity. It can hold an entire pint of beer, making it an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a larger serving. The cylindrical shape also allows easy stacking and storage, making it convenient for bars and restaurants.

Disadvantages

One disadvantage of using a pint glass is that there may be better choices for some beer styles. The straight sides of the glass do not allow for much aroma release, which can be a drawback for more aromatic beer styles. Additionally, the larger serving size can be a problem for those looking to limit their alcohol intake.

Examples of which beer styles are best-suited

Pint-size glasses are best suited for beers that only require a little aroma release, such as stouts, porters, and English ales. These styles typically have a lower-hop aroma and can be enjoyed at a larger serving size.

Pint vs schooner

When it comes to enjoying a cold beer in Australia, the size of the glass matters. The two most common sizes are the pint and the schooner, but how do they differ? A pint glass typically holds around 570 ml of beer, while a schooner holds approximately 425 ml. This means a pint glass can hold nearly one-third more beer than a schooner glass. However, the larger size of a pint glass may not be ideal for all occasions. A schooner glass may be a better choice for those who prefer to savour their beer, as it allows for a smaller serving size and a slower drinking pace.

Additionally, many bars and restaurants in Australia offer different beer styles in different-sized glasses, so it's essential to know which glass size is appropriate for the beer you're ordering. So next time you're out for a drink, consider the glass size and how many mls in a schooner or pint. Cheers to enjoying a beer in a glass, perfectly sized, of course.

Pony Size

The pony beer glass size is typically used to serve beer samples, particularly in tastings. It is also sometimes used in bars and pubs for customers who want to try out different beers without committing to a full-sized serving. The size of a pony glass can vary, but it typically holds around 140ml to 170ml of beer.

Advantages

Despite its small size, the pony glass has some unique advantages. For one, it allows beer drinkers to sample various beers without overindulging or getting too drunk. It's also a great way to try new beers before committing to a larger serving.

Disadvantages

One disadvantage of this beer glass size is that it's not practical for drinking a whole serving of the drink, particularly for those who want to savour the flavour and aroma of their beer. Additionally, because it is not a standard serving size, some bars and pubs may not offer it on their menus.

Pot of Beer

The pot size of beer is a popular choice for those who want a smaller serving of their favourite brew. In Australia, a pot of beer typically contains 285ml or ten fluid ounces. This size is perfect for those who want to savour their beer without feeling too full or for those who want to sample a variety of beers without committing to a full glass. This beer size is still a great way to experience your favourite brew's full flavour and aroma. Some beer enthusiasts argue that the smaller serving size enhances the drinking experience by allowing you to appreciate the complexities of the beer fully.

Advantages

One of the benefits of the pot size is that it's often less expensive than larger serving sizes, making it a budget-friendly option for those who still want to enjoy a great beer. It's also a great choice for those new to beer or wanting to try different types of beer without committing to a larger serving size.

While the pot size may not be as standard as the pint or the schooner in Australia, it's still widely available in many pubs and bars nationwide. And for those who prefer to enjoy their beer at home, many brands offer their beer in pot-sized cans or bottles.

Tulip Glasses

Tulip glasses are another popular type of beer glass in Australia. The unique shape of a tulip glass is designed to enhance the aroma and taste of beer, making it an ideal choice for specific beer styles. The tulip glass has a bulbous shape that narrows towards the top, with a flared lip that helps capture the beer's aroma.

Advantages

One of the main advantages of using a tulip glass is that it helps retain the aroma of the beer. The shape of the glass concentrates the aroma, allowing the drinker to experience the beer's fragrance fully. Additionally, the bulbous body of the glass allows for a good amount of headspace, which is essential for some beer styles.

Disadvantages

The disadvantage of using tulip glass is that it may only be suitable for some types of beer. For example, a lager or pilsner may not benefit from being served in a tulip glass, as their aromas are less intense than other beer styles.

Examples of beer styles best suited for a tulip glass

Tulip glasses are best suited for beer styles with a strong aroma and are typically served at a higher temperature. Belgian ales, saisons, and sour beers are all good examples of beer styles well-suited to a tulip glass.

Snifter Glasses

The snifter glass has a short stem, a wide bowl, and a bulbous shape allowing easy swirling and warming of the beer. The wide bowl also helps to concentrate the beer's aromas. At the same time, the narrow rim traps them inside the glass for maximum enjoyment.

Advantages

One of the main advantages of using a snifter glass is that it helps retain the beer's aroma. The shape of the glass concentrates the aroma, allowing the drinker to enjoy the beer's fragrance. Additionally, the bulbous body of the glass allows for a good amount of headspace, which is essential for some beer styles.

Disadvantages

Snifter glasses can be more challenging to clean than other beer glasses, and their size can make them more difficult to store. They're also not ideal for all types of beer.

Examples of which styles of beer are best suited for a snifter glass

Snifter glasses are best suited for beer styles with a strong aroma and are typically served at a higher temperature. Belgian ales, barleywines, and imperial stouts are all good examples of beer styles well-suited to a snifter glass.

Weizen Glasses

Weizen glasses are tall, thin glasses with a curved shape designed to showcase wheat beer's hazy appearance. They typically have a volume of around 500ml and a narrow bottom that widens towards the top. These glasses are trendy in Germany and other European countries but are also commonly used in Australia.

Advantages

One of the main advantages of using a Weizen glass is that it helps retain the aroma of the beer. The tall, thin shape of the glass concentrates the aroma. Additionally, the form of the glass allows for a good amount of headspace, which is essential for some beer styles.

Disadvantages

The disadvantage of using a Weizen glass is that it tends to be more fragile than other beer glasses and may be more difficult to stack or store. For example, a stout or porter may not benefit from being served in a Weizen glass, as their aromas are not as strong as other beer styles.

Examples of styles of beer best suited for a Weizen glass

Weizen glasses are best suited for wheat beers, such as Hefeweizens and Dunkelweizens. Serves these beers at a higher temperature.

Beer Mugs

The beer mug is a classic glassware option with a sturdy, heavy design. It typically has a handle for easy grip and a thick glass construction that keeps the beer cold longer. Beer mugs are commonly used in German-style beer halls.

Advantages

The sturdy and heavy design makes it less likely to break, making it a good option for outdoor events or rowdy gatherings. The handle keeps the hand away from the glass, which helps maintain the beer's temperature and prevent it from getting warm. The thick walls of the mug helps to insulate the beer, keeping it cooler for longer.

Disadvantages

The thick walls of the mug can make it difficult to appreciate the appearance and colour of the beer. The wide mouth of the mug can allow the aroma of the beer to dissipate quickly, which can detract from the overall experience. The large size of the mug can make it difficult to store in a small cupboard or fridge.

Examples of which styles of beer are best suited for a beer mug

• German-style lagers and pilsners, such as Warsteiner or Paulaner
• English-style ales, such as Fuller's London Pride or Samuel Smith's Nut Brown Ale
• American-style amber ales, such as Fat Tire Amber Ale or Sierra Nevada Amber Ale

These styles typically have a lower-hop aroma and can be enjoyed in larger quantities.

Stemmed Glasses

Stemmed glasses like goblets or chalices are often associated with Belgian-style beers. Their design showcases complex and high-alcohol beers' unique flavours and aromas, such as Belgian dubbels and tripels. The stem of the glass allows the drinker to hold the glass without warming the beer with their hands, while the glass's wide bowl helps release the beer's aromas.

Advantages

The expansive glass bowl helps capture and release the complex aromas of high-alcohol beers. The stem of the glass keeps the hand away from the beer, preventing it from getting warm and ensuring that the beer remains at the optimal temperature. The elegant design of the glass adds a touch of sophistication to the drinking experience.

Disadvantages

The delicate design of the glass makes it more fragile and prone to breaking. It can also be challenging to store in a small cupboard or fridge. The wide opening of the glass can allow the aroma of the beer to dissipate quickly.

Examples of which styles of beer are best suited for a stemmed glass

• Belgian dubbels and tripels, such as Chimay Blue or Westmalle Tripel
• Belgian strong ales, such as Duvel
• Belgian quadrupels, such as St. Bernardus Abt 12 or Rochefort 10

Buying Beer Glasses

As you delve deeper into the world of beer, you should invest in a quality set of beer glasses to enhance your drinking experience. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right ones. Here are some factors to consider when purchasing beer glasses:

Material

Beer glasses are made from various materials, including glass, crystal, and plastic. Glass is the most common material preferred by many beer enthusiasts for its clarity and ability to showcase its colour and carbonation. Crystal glasses are more delicate and can enhance the beer's aroma, but they are also more expensive. Plastic glasses are a great option for outdoor events or parties. Still, they do not offer the same sensory experience as glass or crystal.

Size

Beer glass sizes influence the beer's head and carbonation amount. A smaller glass will have a larger head, while a larger glass will have less head but more carbonation. Consider the type of beer you will be serving and choose a glass size that complements its characteristics.

Shape

The shape of the glass can also significantly affect the taste and aroma of the beer. Choose a glass designed for the type of beer you will be serving. For example, a tulip glass is excellent for Belgian ales and IPAs. In contrast, a pint glass is better suited for stouts and porters.

Quality

Look for well-made glasses with a solid, comfortable feel in your hand. When it comes to beer glasses, you often get what you pay for. Investing in a quality set from a reputable brand can ensure that you have glasses designed to enhance your beer, with the added benefit of being more durable.

Caring for your beer glasses

Taking good care of them is crucial to ensure their longevity and quality. Here are some tips to help you care for your beer glasses:

• Hand wash your beer glasses using mild dish soap and warm water.
• Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, or brushes that can scratch the glass.
• Rinse your glasses thoroughly with warm water and dry them immediately after washing to prevent water spots.
• Store your glasses upside down to prevent dust and debris from accumulating inside the glass.

For more glassware options, Harris Scarfe offers a massive range to help you enjoy a wide range of beverages. Take your entertaining up a notch with our blog about 17 easy cocktails to make at home. We've also thrown in a few easy-to-make air fryer snack recipes to help you host like a pro. Now pour some beer into a glass and enjoy!