brandy snifter
Noun: A brandy snifter is a type of drinking glass characterized by its large, rounded bowl that tapers inward at the top. It is specifically designed for serving brandy and other aromatic spirits. The wide bowl allows the drinker to warm the liquid with their hand, while the narrowed top helps to concentrate the beverage's aromas.
The brandy snifter is used almost exclusively for serving and tasting spirits like brandy, cognac, or whisky. It is not typically used for cocktails or mixed drinks. The design is functional: one holds the glass by the stem or base to avoid warming the spirit with body heat, allowing it to warm naturally from the hand's heat on the bowl, which releases its complex aromas.
- He swirled the cognac gently in the brandy snifter before taking a sip.
- The set of crystal brandy snifters was displayed in the cabinet.
- She poured a small amount of aged brandy into a brandy snifter for tasting.
- As a descriptor: The term can be used descriptively to indicate a glass of that specific shape, even if it contains a different spirit. For example, "He drank his single malt Scotch from a brandy snifter."
- In collecting: "Brandy snifter" can refer to a category of collectible glassware, where antique or artisanal snifters are valued.
- Snifter: A more general term for this style of glass. While often used interchangeably with "brandy snifter," "snifter" can sometimes refer to a slightly smaller version or be used for other spirits.
- Balloon glass: A similar style of glass with a very large, round bowl, often used for red wine or certain beers like Belgian ales. It is related but not identical; a brandy snifter typically has a more pronounced taper at the rim.
- Snifter
- Brandy glass
- Cognac glass
There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs that use the specific term "brandy snifter." It is a concrete noun referring to an object.
- a globular glass with a small top; used for serving brandy