The Glass

• A snifter is a drinking glass which is commonly used to drink brandy, and sometimes other aromatic liquors. It has a base which is wider than the rim so that it allows the release of aromatic vapors. The narrow mouth of the glass helps trap the aroma in the glass during drinking, to enhance the whole experience.

History

• Pliny the Elder (AD 23-79), a Roman statesman, wrote about the abandonment of gold and silver drinking goblets in favor of glass. Glass drinking vessels were often valued the same as their precious metal cousins. In fact, Bonifacio Veronese's 16th-century 'Last Supper' shows contemporary-style glasses with a stem and foot.

Swirling

• The Brandy Snifter is the perfect glass for swirling, sniffing (hence the name), and enjoying exquisite brandy. The mere shape of the snifter glass concentrates the nuances of the brandy's bouquet. The round bowl of the glass allows you to cup it in your hand to warm the the contents to the correct drinking temperature. The fine crystal brings clarity to the rich, deep colors of the brandy.

Capacities

• Usually snifters hold between, 6-8 oz (180-240 ml), but they should never be served with any more than 2-3 oz (60-90 ml). They should always be poured for a single serving, that is, not left in the glass to be finished later. This is a matter of drinking decorum and tradition.

Drawbacks

• There are, however, some drawbacks with using snifters. A snifter glass will cause cognac brandy to evaporate more quickly but cognac is not meant to be smelled but tasted, and the shape of the glass will concentrate the evaporating alcohol and possibly burn the nostrils and taste buds slightly, making what is supposed to be a pleasure into a chore.