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Whiskey might be the trickiest spirit to comprehend fully. It's handcrafted and aged with precision and distinct flavors. And with all the different whiskey glasses, it can be confusing for new whiskey enthusiasts to find the ideal sensory experience. 

So, we made a list combining the best whiskey nosing glasses and the best whiskey tasting glasses to help you make an informed choice.

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Our Top Picks

	Best Overall: Riedel’s Vinum Whiskey Glass • Affordable • Traditional out-turned lip design • Dishwasher safe
	Best Value: Nachtmann Noblesse Whisky Tumbler  •Machine-made lead-free crystal tumbler • Classic cut design  • Dishwasher-friendly
	Most Resistant: Schott Zwiesel Tritan Crystal Nosing Glass  • Lead-free  • Made of titanium and zirconium oxide • Highly durable

1. Glencairn Whisky Nosing Glass

What Customers Have To Say

Those who purchased this classic whiskey glass had only good things to say. One buyer noted how the glass enhanced the enjoyment of an excellent single malt. Another person who reviewed this product liked that the glass was designed to highlight the flavors you could get from single malts and blended whiskies.

Why We Think Its Great

Dubbed as the "official whiskey nosing glass," the Glencairn whiskey glass is made with non-leaded premium crystal. This had to be on our list since it's an award-winning whiskey tasting glass.

In 2006, the Glencairn Whiskey Glass won the Queen's Award for Innovation, and today, it continues to serve high-quality whiskey with its easy-grip thanks to its concrete base. This classic whiskey glass gives you a smoother tasting experience with its tapering mouth and wide bowl for higher quantities.  

Who Should Buy It

The Glencairn Whisky Glass is perfect for those who just got into collecting whiskies and other spirits. It is a great bar accessory to have as well, and stocking up on a new set every once in a while is an excellent way to build up your collection, a worthy investment for a budding whiskey aficionado.

2. Aegis Whiskey Nosing Glass

What Customers Have to Say

For one of the customers, this whisky-nosing glass set is worth checking out. Even though the lines where the glass is molded and forged together are visible, he still says the glasses have good quality and a nice appearance. 

Why We Think It’s Great

You can mix and serve professional-level cocktails for yourself and your guests with the Aegis Whiskey Nosing Glass set, which includes two magnificent, wonderfully constructed lowball glasses. This whiskey glasses set comes beautifully packed in a magnificent, elegant gift box that any mixology lover would enjoy unwrapping.

Who Should Buy It

We feast first with our eyes. This whiskey glass set is an excellent investment if you want to create an upgraded, enjoyable beverage experience at home. This unique bourbon glass set is made of titanium-infused, lead-free transparent crystal that has been fire-polished for perfect smoothness.

3. Norlan Whisky Nosing Glass

What Customers Have To Say

Many customers enjoyed the Norlan whiskey nosing glass for its precise architecture and unique design touch. The majority of the feedback was positive, with a buyer commending its enhancing features to their Scotch in contrast to the Glencairn glass he was always used to drinking from. However, a purchaser did point out that the rims of the glasses they purchased were uneven and could use more precision from the manufacturer's end.

Why We Think Its Great

Another stand-out in our list of the best whiskey nosing glasses, the Norlan Whisky Glass, makes for an ideal accessory to try. It's easy on the hands, designed with a modern style inspired by ocean movements; this glass is made with fluid dynamics intact. 

It incorporates precise aromatics thanks to the specially developed protrusions in the bowl. The glass's inner walls diffuse the ethanol away from the face while lessening volatility, enabling the layers to unravel on the palate smoothly. Not to mention, it comes with a microfiber cloth for maintenance purposes.

Who Should Buy It

Scotch lovers are more likely to enjoy this glass more than anyone. This is an excellent add-on to a whiskey collection.

4. Schott Zwiesel Tritan Crystal Nosing Glass 

What Customers Have To Say

Another trusted brand in the world of whiskey glasses, the Schott Zeiesel Tritan Nosing Glass, has been applauded by users for its durability and non-traditional, stemless design. A buyer gave this product five stars for elevating their bourbon experience. Another customer highlighted its thickness, questioning if it's even "really crystal," regardless of whether this snifter tasting glass was generally well-received.

Why We Think Its Great

Schott Zwiesel is a household name in whiskey glass manufacturing. Produced in Germany, this snifter glass is another strong contender for the best whiskey-nosing glass you could find online. It's made without any lead and features superb durability from titanium and zirconium oxide. If you're a clumsy whiskey lover, then this is a must-have in your home or mini-bar since it has a high resistance to scratching, breakage, chipping, and even thermal shocks. 

Who Should Buy It

Households with big whiskey drinkers will appreciate this type of gift item due to its high-capacity design. This glass can hold 10.9 oz. of your valuable whiskey. It is also dishwasher safe, which is excellent for those who don’t like washing things by hand.

5. Nachtmann Noblesse Whisky Tasting Tumbler

What Customers Have To Say

Buyers have mixed reviews over this whiskey tumbler. One happy customer was delighted with its size and sturdiness, which could hold up to 11 oz of liquid, perfect for her whisky-loving family. Another buyer did manage to point out that its thick glass material and its weight at 14.1 oz, which was a bit too heavy for her grip. Overall, buyers thought this nosing glass as well of a value for their money.

Why We Think Its Great

This contender for the best whiskey tasting glasses is another one of Germany's finest. The Nachtmann Noblesse Whiskey Tumbler comes in a set of four and is made with non-lead Bavarian crystal for premium elegance. 

Its makers brought back a classic cut that still manages to be aroma-focused in diffusing ethanol during nosing. Its capacity is generous, holding 9.9 oz of liquid. This machine-made whiskey tasting glass has a unique brilliance that has a luxurious design touch worth noting.

Who Should Buy It

Another one for the Scotch enthusiasts. The Nachtmann Noblesse whiskey tumbler is a sound choice for traditional Scotch lovers who already have a mini-bar set up in their home. These whiskey glasses could boost your nosing and tasting experience while creating a luxurious touch to your space.

6. Riedel's Vinum Whiskey Nosing Glass

What Customers Have To Say

Those who purchased the Riedel Vinum Whiskey Glass received positive reviews from customers. "The perfect glass," one buyer commented, highlighting how it was user-friendly and made with the quality intact. Another buyer pointed out how the glass was truly created without lead and enjoyed how the shape made for an excellent nosing experience.

Why We Think Its Great

Launched in 1991, Riedel's Vinum collection is simply one of the best whiskey tasting glasses that resembles a nosing copita glass but without the long stem. We enjoyed the finesse that goes with this nosing glass for its affordable price and artificial crystal glass. This set comes with two traditionally designed whiskey nosing glasses which kept its traditional out-turned lip but modified it with a short stem and solid, thick base.

The classic out-turned lip helps direct the spirit onto your tongue’s tip for a smooth transition to your palate. This elevates the sweetness and creaminess of your favorite single malt whiskey. It can hold 7 oz of liquid and is 4.5 inches tall, a perfect fit in the dishwasher for those who aren't a fan of handwashing. 

Who Should Buy It

Martini lovers who enjoy collecting single malt whiskies should invest in these modified Riedel glasses. This set of two makes a sweet anniversary gift to couples who want spirits and like trying new whiskey blends. 

7. Cuisivin Glendale Whiskey Nosing Glass

What Customers Have to Say

One of the satisfied buyers mentioned that this item is the perfect glassware to sip, test, and enjoy a whiskey or other spirit that you like. He liked the height of the stem as it gives enough space to hold and twirl the glass without worrying about your hand warming the drink inside.

Why We Think It’s Great

The Glendale Whiskey Nosing Glass of Cuisivin is constructed of quality lead-free crystal from Germany. The short-stemmed, tulip-shaped glass wonderfully exposes the delicate complexity and nuances from any kind of whiskey to spirit. 

The bowl's form allows for gentle swirling, releasing the rich flavor and aroma to the high taper. The size is ideal for emphasizing all the whiskey has to showcase on the palate, as it was explicitly made for nosing. The Glendale glass is ideal for any whiskey connoisseur.

Who Should Buy It

Are you looking for the ideal whiskey nosing glass for high-proof whiskeys? This whiskey-nosing glass from Cuisivin is perfect as it has a wide-mouth opening and is more comfortable to drink from. 

8. Glencairn Whiskey & Sherry Nosing Copita Tasting Glass

What Customers Have To Say

This copita glass got mixed reviews from customers, with a few highlighting its excellent nosing capabilities, while others being critical about the glass not being dishwasher safe and even a little too fragile for regular hand washing. Regardless, this glass is generally good for those looking for a whisky tasting glass for everyday use.

Why We Think Its Great

Glencairn's Whiskey & Sherry Nosing Copita Glass is made with lead-free crystal and comes with a cap. The cap helps the whiskey sit after a good stir, wherein the aroma intertwines with the oxygen and sufficiently develops the whiskey's layers. This stemmed glass has a unique tulip bowl shape that allows for a generous pour.

Its tulip shape escalates the nosing experience by allowing the liquid to swirl enough to retain the alcohol vapors. With its small opening, pouring your whiskey in and covering it with a tasting cap will activate the aromas well sufficient for an excellent finish on your palate. The official whiskey nosing glass by Glencairn comes gift-boxed for a ready-set gift to your favorite people.

Who Should Buy It

This glass is a good buy for those who drink whiskey or enjoy spirits at least once a day. It's great for regular use and a must to invest in if you're keen on building a whiskey collection. Why not start with glasses that are complementary to your best spirits?

9. Final Touches Rocks Nosing Glass with Ice Ball Set 

What Customers Have To Say

"Fun way to have a cocktail," one buyer said about Final Touches Rocks Glass. Its unique base helped preserve the neat liquor taste they were looking to enjoy. Another buyer left a positive review about its quality that boasts thickness and unique architecture for a better swirling experience. Others did point out that it's best to handwash them to maintain their quality.

Why We Think Its Great

Final Touches Rocks Glass is another contender for one of the best whiskey nosing glasses. With the design alone, it's a stand-out piece that is aesthetically pleasing and practical in swirling and nosing the actual whiskey. Its base has a mold that is an excellent assist for rolling the whiskey, requiring less motion to activate the aroma while the ice ball graces its layers.  

Who Should Buy It

This rocks glass comes with an ice ball mold for those who enjoy their Scotch on the rocks. It makes for a good wedding gift to newly married couples building their home bar. 

10. Eisch Malt Whiskey Nosing Glass 

What Customers Have To Say

Several happy customers enjoyed the glass aesthetic design. "It's beautifully shaped glass and a pleasure to hold," said one buyer. The design is just one facet of the glass customers liked; its practicality and durability are other highlights of this whiskey glass. However, a customer did highlight that they could spot visible air bubbles in the glass they ordered. Regardless, this whiskey nosing glass is an excellent choice for regular use.

Why We Think Its Great

Another promising entry to our list of the best whiskey nosing glasses is the Eisch Malt Whiskey Nosing Glass. Handmade in Germany, a sleek touch on craftsmanship includes a classic whiskey tumbler with a slightly flared rim that aids in activating the dynamic layers on your palate. A beginner whiskey drinker will find this glass rather useful in contrast to other single malt whiskey glasses. 

Apart from timeless architecture, this glass variant is dishwasher safe for convenient maintenance. It also comes with a top lid and a tubular casing for secure packaging, ready to hand to your next new whiskey-loving friend.

Who Should Buy It

This whiskey glass is an ideal option for those who like stemmed whiskey glasses. Perfect for special occasions, it is best enjoyed with a special bottle of Parker Heritage whiskey, if you will.

11. Viski Seneca Faceted Crystal Nosing Tumbler

What Customers Have To Say

Mixed reviews for the Viski Seneca Faceted Crystal Tumbler. This set of two whiskey nosing tumblers was generally well-received, with customers raving about its comfortable grip and superb design. Others were quite critical about the thinness of the glass, making it more fragile than expected. Nevertheless, they were still "Cool Glasses" to own, according to one buyer.

Why We Think Its Great

The leading facet of the Viski Seneca Crystal Tumbler is the design. Although, it's more than meets the eye and has user-friendly qualities that have been celebrated time and again. This lead-free crystal glass features a triangular base and trigonal sides, creating a built-in light show thanks to the refracted light. 

It generates striking specks of light from the hypertonic prisms in every angle when you place it down. The Viski Crystal Tumbler is also ideal for sweet whiskies and cocktails, elevating the drinks’ fruity aesthetic. 

Who Should Buy It

A glass that features geometric splendor like this is a great token to have in any home. If you're newly moved-in, the Viski Seneca glass will make a great decor on your kitchen shelf or merely another glass to add to your collectors' items. Its unique design alone is reason enough to get yourself a set for birthdays or even long weekends in.

12. Brilliant - Highland Tasting and Nosing Whiskey Glass

What Customers Have to Say

One of the pleased shoppers said that this nosing glass is his favorite one. He mentioned that he owns other long and short-stemmed tulips, snifters, and other grappa glasses, but this one provides the best function for whiskey tasting.

Why We Think It’s Great

The Highland whiskey glass is an elegant, bulbous goblet with a short stem designed to be comfortable on the hand.

The wide mouth provides excellent ventilation for drinking alcohol because it has a shape similar in size and form as what you would find when surveying your drink from all angles - this makes sure there are no missed opportunities during taste testing!

Who Should Buy It

Are you tired of putting ice repeatedly to your bourbon because it inevitably warms up when you’re holding your whiskey glass? This stemmed whiskey glass can solve your problems. Its stem prevents you from increasing the temperature of your drink and allows you to enjoy it hassle-free!

Best Whiskey Glass Care Tips

Depending on the type of whiskey nosing or tasting glass you own, the maintenance and care could vary. Regardless, a few delicate tips to remember when washing your crystal whiskey glasses include the following:

Dishwasher Method

• Ensure you've given your dishwasher a general cleaning using a good dishwasher cleaner since hard water deposits tend to cloud the glassware it's washing. 
• Whiskey nosing glasses, more often than not, are dishwasher safe. However, a few brands are not; thus, washing your Viski Seneca Crystal Tumbler should be cleaned at a low temperature set to "delicate washing."
• Load the whiskey glassware on the top rack of the dishwasher and carefully space them out from other glassware or ceramics. Adjust the top shelf to fit stemmed whiskey glasses placed upright with the base facing down. They may also be laid down on their side but check if you can create a buffer from one glass to another to prevent hitting each other.
• Don't pull out the whiskey glasses immediately after washing to avoid getting them cloudy. Leave it in the dishwasher to cool for a few minutes; this will also allow the steam to escape the dishwasher.

Handwashing Method

• Use warm water and detergent to wash your whiskey glasses.
• Ensure you've spaced out your whiskey tasting glasses away from other ceramics or sharp objects to prevent scratching during the cleaning process.
• Gently rinse off the hot water using a few drops of white vinegar to add shine. 
• Drain the water carefully.
• Dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Go with linen for thorough cleaning.

Polishing

• Use a microfiber polishing cloth. 
• Wash the cloth at boiling temperature to expend all bacteria. Use odorless soap when machine washing at 75 ° C. 
• Best to avoid fabric softener when rinsing your polishing cloth. 
• Be precise but gentle when cleaning the rims of your whiskey glasses.
• Don't apply pressure between your thumb and index finger when polishing the stem to avoid snapping. 

Storage

• Keep them stacked adequately on your mini-bar, or keep the rocks glass on a whiskey case. 
• If you plan to keep it in a cabinet, the rims face down and the base up.
•  Ensure it's not positioned close to the cabinet door or any hard surface like metal or ceramics in the cabinet.

Whiskey Nosing and Tasting Glasses FAQ

1. What is a whiskey tasting glass called?

A whiskey tasting glass is also called a whiskey tumbler. It also comes in various forms like the rocks glass, the old-fashioned glass, and the lowball. They're all glasses you can use to serve whiskey but in different styles and use other elements to elevate the whiskey's flavor. 

2. Who makes the best whiskey glasses?

According to industry experts, Riedel is a consistent top performer since 1991. Riedel's Vinum Single Malt Whisky Glass is a top contender that boasts durability and versatility in the best whiskey glasses category. Best for Malt Whisky and Single Malt Whisky, Riedel has traditional and modern designs that boost your nosing and tasting experience.

3. Why are whiskey glasses shaped the way they are?

Whiskey glasses, like the rocks glass, for one, are made with straight sides, which delays the whiskey's fumes to leave the mouth of the glass, helping you savor the aromas as you nose the whiskey. On the other hand, cocktail glasses are shaped with a wider mouth, allowing you to taste the whiskey’s undertones while also drinking it quicker than neat in a rocks glass.

4. Are whiskey and scotch glasses the same?

Yes, since scotch is just another variant of whiskey made in Scotland. This type of whiskey is also served in a Glencairn glass or a rocks glass.

5. How do you drink from a Glencairn glass?

Start by adequately holding the thick base with your fingers' tips to ensure the heat doesn't transfer to the whiskey. Ensure you point your nose inside the glass and sniff the aromas that the whiskey gives off. There are usually layers to this type of spirit, best to slow down your sipping to get a full experience on your palate.

Bottom Line

When it comes to precision and flavor, the senses will dictate, but the glass will help guide you through the experience. 

We recommend the Riedel Vinum's Whiskey Glass for its overall performance. It’s the best whiskey nosing glass in our book due to its modern take on the stemmed Glencairn whiskey glass. The fluid dynamics of this whiskey glass's out-turned lip does a great job in activating all the layers overlooked in a good bottle. 

Versatile and made with top-notch material, the Norlan Whisky Glass makes for a great gift with a little character. Its unique tri-agonal sides add to a built-in light show. It may not give light refraction for added visual appeal, but it bodes well for sound fluid aromatics.

Which best whiskey tasting and nosing glass is the best for you? Let us know in the comments below.

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Comments

• So much fine glassware. I have not tried all of what is listed above. I have tried many glasses for bourbon and found that the Glencarin is the most solid over all (taste, nose and feel and availability). I know those – like you – like the Riedel, but I was not that impressed and they are very fragile, the lip of the glass chips with wear. I prefer tasting with a stemmed glass, but the Glencarin always is the go to for an overall nosing or tasting evaluation.

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