Should I use a certain glass for cider?

Over dinner the other night friends asked us, “Is there a special glass we should use for cider?”

In fact, there are at least nine “special” glasses you can choose for cider. Nine!

The best answer to our guests’ question is, use any of them. Each shape highlights a different cider characteristic (more on that in a future post). But our advice is choose the shape and look that makes you happy.

For example, my favorite glass shape for dry, Euro-style Carriage House ciders is the classic champagne flute, which is not even included in the picture here. I like a flute because most of our ciders are crafted just like French Champagne, except we start with  apples instead of grapes. We think champagne flutes highlight the color, aromas, flavors and elegance of our ciders. But you know what? A plain old wine glass will work just fine. Even a small water glass will do.

Don’t worry about it. At heart, cider is a simple drink, enjoyed for centuries in everything from plain clay mugs to the finest European crystal. So keep it simple. Use the glassware of your choice. No worries and no pretense, please! Just enjoy.