One of the most often asked questions – after ‘What can I drink gin with instead of tonic?’ and ‘What’s your favourite gin?’ that I get asked is about the glasses.
How we drink gin has changed. We’re all used to drinking gin in a high ball – the classic tall G&T, but along with the growth in gins made to sip (meaning we want a tumbler instead), we also have the influence of our Spanish cousins meaning the growth in the popularity of the copa glass.
The copa glass is reminiscent of a red wine glass – with a big round bowl and plenty of room for ice and garnishes. It’s been the change in our garnishing of gin, our understanding of how the right garnish can allow a gin to shine, just as the right mixer can, that has led to this glass becoming so popular, but until recently, most glasses were from brands themselves. A little bit of a problem for people like me who want to review a number of gins and tonics. It feels distinctly wrong sampling a gin in a rival branded glass. Ditto for a rival tonic brand.
Luckily Wineware have come to my rescue. They have a range of gin and tonic glasses, including these copa glasses from Schott Zwiesel. At the bargain price of £15 for a pair (£45 for 6) I was a little unsure of the quality. I expected solid, sturdy glasses, but didn’t hold out hope for their quality.
And I owe Wineware an apology. Not only are these good sturdy glasses, but their quality is fantastic. They shine up beautifully – so much so, that in the sunlight they are incredibly transparent, almost invisible. As you can see, I’ve used them in review, after review, after review – so the fact that I’ve yet to break one is a testament to their strength.
And yes, I know, I’ve just cursed myself, as a breakage is now inevitable.
But the best bit for me? Is the sound they make. They ring.
You know the effect I mean? When you clink glasses, or just tap the glass with your finger, they make that perfect clear ‘ping’ that rings gently.
Quality has a sound. And these have it. I’m putting my branded glasses away.
With thanks to Wineware for these two glasses to review. I am incredibly impressed and will be buying another box of six, for when the inevitable happens!