The Beer Lover's Ultimate Gift Guide

Beer lovers can be tricky to buy for, especially if you want to get them something other than a six-pack or gimmicky accessories. But there are plenty of gifts that will impress even the most discerning beer buff. From home brewing kits to special coasters, and even snacks made with beer, there's something for every beer lover.

Beer-themed glassware

Beer glassware is about more than just looks. The shape of the glass can impact head development and retention, which is important because the foam created by pouring a beer acts as a net for volatile compounds that evaporate from the beer to create its aroma. Different styles of glassware should be used for different beers.

Pint Glasses

The American pint glass is the most common glass for beer in the United States. It is slightly wider at the mouth than at the base and typically holds 16 oz. It is used for a wide range of beers, including lagers, ales, IPAs, stouts, and porters. It is cheap to manufacture, easy to clean and stack, and easy to drink from, which is why it is so popular.

The English pint glass, also called an Imperial or Nonic glass, is similar but has a slight lip near the top and holds 20 oz. It is usually preferred for drinking English ales and lagers.

Pilsner Glasses

Pilsner glasses are tall, slim, and slightly wider at the mouth. They showcase the sparkle, clarity, and bubbles of pilsners and other lighter beers, while also helping to retain the head. They typically hold 12-14 oz.

Tulip Glasses

Tulip glasses have a bulbous body and a flared lip. They are designed to capture the head and promote the aroma and flavor of Belgian ales and other malty, hoppy beers. They usually hold 11.2-14.2 oz.

Thistle Glasses

Thistle glasses are a modified version of the tulip glass, resembling Scotland's national flower. They are used for Scotch ales.

Goblet and Chalice Glasses

Goblets and chalices have a long thick stem with a bowl sitting on top. Chalice bowls usually have thicker glass walls. They are great for heavy, malty beers, such as Belgian ales and German Bocks.

IPA Glasses

IPA glasses are tall, slender, and tapered, with ridges at the bottom to aerate the beer and release volatile aromatics.

Stout Glasses

Stout glasses have a base and bowl at an angle to accentuate the roasted malts, coffee, and chocolate notes of stout beers. The angled shelf and narrow mouth promote head retention.

Weizen Glasses

Weizen glasses are similar to pilsner glasses but have more curvature, especially at the top of the glass. They are used for wheat beers and usually hold 0.5L.

Stange Glasses

Stange glasses are narrow, straight, and cylindrical, like a champagne flute. They are used for delicate beers such as kölsch, bocks, lambics, and gose. Unlike a flute, they have a thick bottom for sturdiness.

Teku Stemmed Beer Glasses

The Teku glass is visually stunning, with a tulip-like bowl, a thin lip, and a long stem to prevent your hands from warming the beer. It is suitable for all beer styles but does a phenomenal job of concentrating aromatics and accentuating flavor profiles, so it is particularly good for very strong beers.

Beer-themed novelty clothing

T-shirts

T-shirts are a classic choice for novelty clothing, and you can find various options with beer-related illustrations, slogans, and brand logos. These can range from bold graphics for stout lovers to subtle designs for those who prefer lagers. You can also find unique all-over prints that cover the entire t-shirt with intricate beer-themed designs, including hops, barley, brewing equipment, and even bubbles in a beer glass.

Baseball jerseys

Baseball jerseys are a fun twist on traditional sportswear, incorporating beer-themed elements. For example, you might find jerseys with popular beer styles or brewing terms instead of team names or logos that mimic brewery branding. These are perfect for beer enthusiasts who also love America's pastime.

Hawaiian shirts

For a quirky option, consider a beer-themed Hawaiian shirt. Instead of the typical floral patterns, these shirts feature motifs like hop flowers, barley grains, beer bottles, and mugs. They're perfect for beer-themed events, beach parties, or casual summer wear.

Hoodies and sweatshirts

As the weather gets cooler, hoodies and sweatshirts with beer-themed designs can keep you warm while showcasing your passion for craft beer. These might include logos of popular breweries or witty beer-related quotes. They're ideal for casual outings, visits to breweries, or cozy evenings at home with your favourite brew.

Socks

Novelty socks are a fun way to add a touch of beer-themed flair to your outfit. You can find colourful and playful designs featuring beer-related motifs, perfect for a unique gift idea.

Hats and caps

Beer-themed hats and caps allow you to literally "cap off" your beer-themed outfit. Look for options featuring brand logos or subtle beer-related motifs to top off your look.

These ideas should provide a good starting point for finding the perfect beer-themed novelty clothing item for yourself or as a gift for a beer lover in your life.

Beer-themed homeware

If you're looking for beer-themed homeware, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Glassware and Drinkware

A great place to start when it comes to beer-themed homeware is with glassware and drinkware. You could opt for a classic set of beer glasses, such as the Tempa Quinn Beer Glasses Set of 4, or go for something more unique like the Dumbbell Beer Glass. If you're looking for a gift that's both functional and funny, consider the On The Rox "Most Wonderful Time for a Beer" 16 Ounce Glass. For a more sophisticated option, you could choose the Spiegelau 4-Piece Craft Beer Tasting Kit, which includes an IPA glass, a glass for stouts, and a glass for American wheat beer.

Coasters

Coasters are a must-have for any beer lover, and there are plenty of beer-themed options to choose from. For something simple yet stylish, go for the Graf Lantz Bierfilzl Felt Coasters, which come in over 15 different colours. Or, for a more playful option, choose the Funny Beer-Themed Wooden Coasters with Holder, which feature laser-engraved designs that are sure to make your beer-loving friend smile.

Bottle Openers

A bottle opener is a must-have for any beer enthusiast, and it can also double as a decorative piece. For a sophisticated option, the FS Objects Crown Bottle Opener is a well-designed and solidly made choice that will last a lifetime. Or, for something more unique, the OTOTO 2-in-1 Wine & Beer Opener is a gothic-style bottle opener that's perfect for those who love both wine and beer. If you're looking for a bottle opener that's also a conversation starter, the Draft Top Lift Can Opener turns any aluminium can into a smooth-edged, open-top cup.

Beer Caddy

A beer caddy is a great way to keep your beer lover's drinks organised and stylish. The PICNIC TIME Beer Caddy with Beer Bottle Opener is a great option, as it can hold up to six drinks and comes with a bottle opener. For a more rustic option, the Reclaimed Wine Barrel Stave Beer Flight is a wooden beer holder and sampling board that's perfect for those who like to try different beers.

Home Decor

When it comes to beer-themed home decor, there are plenty of options to choose from. The Beer Deer Busch Light Deer Head is a 3D cardboard mount that's perfect for those who want to display their love of beer in a fun and unique way. Or, for something more subtle, the Pop Chart Breweries of the United States Poster is an eye-catching poster that features nearly 6,000 beer producers and is a great gift for beer drinkers who also love to set goals.

Beer-themed books

Beer lovers who are eager to learn more about their favourite drink will enjoy a good beer-themed book. Here are some ideas:

• The Oxford Companion to Beer: This book covers everything from the technical aspects of brewing to beer culture.
• The Brewmaster's Table: Discovering the Pleasures of Real Beer With Real Food: Written by Garrett Oliver, the brewmaster at Brooklyn Brewery, this book is a great read for those who want to learn about the history and different styles of brewing.
• Tasting Beer: An Insider's Guide to the World's Greatest Drink: For beer lovers who want to learn how to taste beer and develop their palate, this book by Randy Mosher is the definitive guide.
• The Complete Beer Course: Boot Camp for Beer Geeks: From Novice to Expert in Twelve Tasting Classes: For a crash course in beer, try this book by Josh Bernstein.
• The New World Guide to Beer, by Michael Jackson: This book by the late English beer critic and author Michael Jackson is a deep cut for those who are already knowledgeable about beer.
• Brewing Up a Business, by Sam Calagione: For beer lovers interested in the business side of things, this book combines practical entrepreneurship tips with insights from the founder of Dogfish Head.
• Modern Lager Beer, by Jack Hendler and Joe Connolly: Published by the Brewers Association, this book covers traditional lager brewing techniques and new lager beer styles.

Beer-themed games

Beer! is a dedicated deck card game that is highly rated by customers and can be a great party starter. The game is simple and silly, but it can get drinks down fast and get the party going.

Unlabeled is another blind beer tasting board game that can be played at home or at a bar. The game puts your taste buds to the test as you try to identify different types of beer.

Drinking games are a chance to celebrate life with friends and can be a great addition to any get-together.

Frequently asked questions