Glassware plays a significant role in the overall enjoyment of beverages. Beyond its visual appeal, the glass’s design has a substantial impact on the drinking experience. Lucaris glassware is both visually appealing and functional, capable of enhancing aromas, adjusting taste, and offering a satisfying tactile feel, all of which contribute to elevating the experience to a premium level.
Trend Check
Currently, a notable trend emerging in the wine and whisky realm is a shift towards consuming higher-quality beverages, albeit in smaller quantities. This inclination indicates a willingness to invest more per bottle while enjoying a lesser quantity per occasion. “In the realm of cocktails, we have observed a persistence in the trend of clear drinks, which gained momentum last year and may continue for a while. Additionally, the quest for premium ingredients will remain prevalent in this space. This desire for high-quality ingredients directly correlates to the importance of suitable glassware, such as Lucaris, ensuring that these top-notch ingredients are appreciated in the best possible manner,” says Magandeep Singh, Wine Sommelier, Columnist and Lucaris Brand Influencer.
Custom Cues
In the wine space, there is a noticeable surge in specialised glassware customised for specific grape varietals. For instance, we are witnessing the serving of big whites in red burgundy glasses and vintage champagnes in white wine glasses instead of flutes. “This selection is tailored to accentuate the unique flavour profiles of each beverage. For example, when a vintage champagne is served in a white wine glass, it accentuates the creamier, oak, and biscuity notes inherent in the wine, whereas when served in a flute, it offers a leaner, mineral, and more citrus fruit-forward experience. Regarding whisky, even prominent brands like Johnny Walker, Glenmorangie, and Monkey Shoulder, previously endorsing straight consumption in rocks glasses, are now producing whiskies intended for tall glasses with mixers to appeal to younger audiences. The Lucaris Rims Collection is well-suited to cater to the burgeoning demand for cocktail-specific glassware in the country,” says Viraj Sawant, Wine Sommelier, Lucaris Brand Influencer and Founder, InACan Cocktails, and Founder, Indian School of Beverages.
Crafting Shapes
Glassware indeed plays a crucial role in today’s drinking culture. It enhances beverages and brings out their flavours. Beyond the aesthetic appeal, a well-crafted crystal glass offers several advantages—it is thin, lightweight, and refracts light beautifully, providing an optimal view of our drink. Its durability ensures a lasting shine, even after numerous washes. Different glass shapes are designed to enhance aroma detection, which significantly influences the tasting experience. This is particularly true for premium beverages. Furthermore, elevating our glassware not only enhances the sensory experience but also enriches the overall ambiance of the bar or table setting.
“Exploring the impact of glassware involves a blend of scientific understanding of waves and molecules combined with Lucaris experts’ experimentation, trying various spirits in different glasses to determine the optimal match. In essence, the right wine, whiskey, or cocktail in the right glass consistently amplifies the overall experience. Trusting the expertise behind these choices ensures an enhanced drinking experience every time,” says Singh.
Choose Well
Considering your budget while purchasing glassware is crucial. Opting for quality stems, even if it means buying fewer initially, is an investment in building a worthwhile collection over time. The suitability of glassware varies based on the type of beverage being served. For wines, different grapes benefit from specific glass shapes. For instance, red wines often pair well with larger, rounder glasses like Bordeaux or Burgundy glasses from Lucaris’ Hong Kong Hip Collection, while white wines are better served in smaller glasses like a Chardonnay glass from the same collection. Champagne often goes into flutes or white wine glasses to preserve its effervescence. In the realm of whisky, the choice of glass is evolving. While rock glasses were the standard, taller glasses with mixers are becoming more popular, especially among younger audiences. One can try the Hong Kong Hip Collection’s Double Rock and Long Drink glassware,” says Sawant. As for cocktails, the versatility of glassware is extensive. Some cocktails require traditional options like martini glasses or highball glasses, while others might benefit from more modern designs, offering a unique drinking experience.
Hospitality Connect
Glassware in the hospitality and restaurant industries needs to strike a balance between aesthetics and practicality. It should not only be visually appealing but also durable, capable of withstanding frequent use and wash cycles without succumbing to chips or cracks. Maintaining its brilliance even after numerous washes is a defining feature and a unique selling point of Lucaris crystalware, which is why the brand is a trusted partner of premium hotel chains in the country. “Hotels select glassware based on their specific needs.
Traditionally, Ocean has been a popular choice among many hotels for their glassware requirements in restaurants and banquets. However, with Lucaris emerging in the market, it is catching the attention of top-tier five-star hotels due to its exclusive Crystal range, offering a touch of sophistication and quality glassware, and being among the pioneers targeting the Indian glassware market,” says Sawant. Customers are gravitating towards standalone establishments over traditional five-star hotels, where Lucaris seamlessly aligns. Its offerings perfectly suit the evolving preferences of customers who seek out unique experiences beyond the traditional hospitality sector.
