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In Nagoya this year, we’ve already experienced several days with temperatures exceeding 35℃—even though it’s only June! In Japan, days with highs above 25℃ are considered “summer days”, those over 30℃ are “midsummer days”, and over 35℃ are “extremely hot days”. So it feels like we’ve skipped summer and gone straight into full-blown heat!

And what do we crave in such scorching weather? I’m sure many would agree: an ice-cold beer! 🍺
Cracking open a can and chugging it down is certainly satisfying—but using a proper beer vessel can elevate your drinking experience by changing the mouthfeel and aftertaste.
In this column, we’ll explore the types and features of beer vessels, and introduce some of our top recommended products.

Table of Contents
1.　How Beer’s Expression Changes with the Material of the Vessel
2.　How Shape Affects Taste and Aroma
3.　Recommended Beer Vessels by Type
4.　Conclusion

How Beer’s Expression Changes with the Material of the Vessel

Beer vessels come in various materials, each with its own unique qualities that can significantly influence the beer’s impression. The most common are glass, ceramic, and metal.

Glass is the classic choice. Its transparency allows you to visually enjoy the beer’s color and foam. Pouring into a chilled glass creates a refreshing appearance, and the coldness is conveyed directly. It’s especially well-suited for crisp beers, such as lagers—most notably pilsners. However, one drawback is that the temperature tends to rise relatively quickly.

Ceramic, on the other hand, offers a warmer, softer feel. It creates a smooth, creamy head and is less affected by ambient temperature, helping to maintain the beer’s chill longer. It pairs especially well with fragrant ales and stouts, enhancing their complex flavors.

Metal vessels—made from tin, copper, or stainless steel—are excellent at retaining coldness for extended periods. Their sharp lip and clean finish bring out the crispness of beer, making them ideal for that brisk, refreshing sip in hot weather.

How Shape Affects Taste and Aroma

Not only the material, but also the shape of a beer vessel influences the taste and aroma of the beer. For example, a tall and slender pilsner glass helps retain carbonation and creates a beautiful foam, making it ideal for beers where a crisp, clean finish is key. On the other hand, rounded shapes like goblets or tulip glasses are designed to capture and concentrate aromas, allowing you to enjoy the fruity notes of ales and craft beers more richly.

Another important factor is the thickness of the rim. A thin, flared rim provides a sharp mouthfeel, while a thicker rim gives a softer, rounder taste experience.
It may seem like “just a glass,” but with the right choice, even your everyday beer can be transformed

Recommended Beer Vessels by Type

Here are our top picks for this summer from our range of Japanese-made vessels—one each from glass, ceramic, and metal:

Craft Beer Master Set (Glass)

A three-glass set designed to bring out the unique characteristics of craft beer.
Each shape emphasizes a different aspect: refreshing mouthfeel, rich aroma, or deep flavor. This set lets you experience how glass shape alone can transform the taste of beer.

From left to right: “Refreshing,” “Aromatic,” “Robust”

• Refreshing（爽快): A straight, open-top glass that allows for a high flow rate, enhancing the crispness of the beer.
  (φ71×H142mm / 345ml)
• Aromatic（芳醇）: A flared rim spreads flavor across the palate, while the bulbous base traps aroma.
  (φ69×H142mm / 420ml)
• Robust（重厚）: A narrowing rim directs beer to the center of the tongue, accentuating depth and richness.
  (φ69×H142mm / 380ml)

Beer Mug (Ceramic)

This ceramic beer mug has a shape reminiscent of a classic beer stein. Produced in Tono, Gifu Prefecture, Japan’s largest ceramic production region, it comes in a variety of traditional patterns and colors. Made with Mino ware techniques, the mug’s soft glaze and ergonomic curves give it a comforting, natural feel. With a generous 420ml capacity, it fits a standard 370ml can of beer nicely. The foam forms softly and the aroma gently spreads—ideal for craft or dark beers.

・Size: 8.7×13cm
・Capacity: 420ml
・Weight: 659g

Pure Copper Beer Cup (Metal)

This hand-polished copper cup is made in Tsubame City, Niigata Prefecture, by skilled artisans. Featuring a hammered pattern and modern Japanese design, it bridges traditional and contemporary aesthetics. The interior is carefully polished to promote fine foaming when beer is poured. Thermographic testing shows that the beer stays at a perfect drinking temperature even 15 minutes after pouring. Certified with the “Made in Tsubame” mark by the Tsubame Chamber of Commerce, ensuring quality and authenticity.

・Size: φ80×H150mm
・Capacity: 380ml
・Weight: 150g

Conclusion

It’s amazing how much the experience of drinking beer can change just by switching up the vessel. That’s the fun of choosing the right drinkware!
Tonight, instead of drinking straight from the can, why not pour your beer into a favorite vessel and take your time savoring it?
You just might discover a whole new world of beer.

At Imoto Sangyo, we offer a wide range of tableware, kitchen goods, cutlery, farming tools, and lifestyle accessories.
For inquiries regarding import/export, please contact us via our “Contact“ page.
Please note: we do not sell directly to individual consumers.