Draft:The Neat Glass

• Comment: Also please remove all external links from the body of the text (see WP:EXTERNAL), the bolds from the headings (see WP:MOS). qcne (talk) 09:57, 7 November 2024 (UTC)

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The NEAT Glass, developed by Arsilica Inc., a Nevada-based company, is a glassware product used in tasting high-proof spirits. The design features a flared rim and broad bowl, which the manufacturer claims help direct ethanol vapors away from the nose and release aromas more effectively. First introduced at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition., and has since been adopted in various professional tasting settings.

History

The concept for the NEAT Glass originated in 2002 when George F. Manska, a contributor to its development, observed how the shape of glassware influenced the release of ethanol and aromas during a scotch tasting . This observation led to research on how design affects sensory perception, culminating in the creation of the NEAT Glass.

Nearly a decade of research and multiple design iterations resulted in the patented NEAT Glass, released in 2012 . NEAT stands for "Naturally Engineered Aroma Technology."

Design & Dimensions

The NEAT Glass is 2.6 inches tall, with a 3.1-inch diameter, and has a capacity of 2 oz (5.9 cL).. It features a broad bowl to increase the liquid's surface area and a flared rim to direct vapors. The glass is made from lead-free crystal sourced from Slovakia and is available in various markets, including the United States , Europe, and Australia.

Sensory Engineering

The design of the NEAT Glass aims to influence how aromas are perceived during tasting. The flared rim is intended to direct ethanol vapors away from the nose, while the wide bowl helps release a range of aromas. By minimizing ethanol concentration in the area where the nose is placed, the glass with principles based on Graham’s Law aims to make detecting complex aroma compounds easier .

Swirling, Nosing, and Temperature Control

Swirling the liquid in the NEAT Glass facilitates the release of aroma compounds. The shorter height brings the nose closer to the liquid, potentially enhancing scent detection. The glass can be held by either the bowl or the neck, allowing the user to control the temperature, which may affect aroma release .

Comparative Study on Aroma Perception

Research on glassware design has compared the NEAT Glass to traditional glasses, such as the tulip-shaped whiskey glass and snifter glass. These studies suggest that the NEAT Glass may emphasize certain aromas, such as fruit and sweet notes, while traditional glasses may highlight different characteristics, like woody or smoky scents. The NEAT Glass has been noted for accentuating specific aromas in spirits like Scotch and tequila .

Further Research conducted at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, has examined the NEAT Glass's design and its impact on aroma detection. The study found that the flared lip and the glass's proximity to the liquid’s surface aid in dispersing ethanol vapors. This arrangement places the nose near the evaporating aromas, which may make it easier to perceive certain esters and aromatic compounds..

Industry Recognition

The NEAT Glass has been recognized in various tasting competitions and events. In 2018, the International Beer and Wine Society (IBWSS) named it the official Spirits Trade Tasting Glass, citing its potential to enhance aroma detection. The glass has also been used at events like the Santé Wine & Spirits Competition and the San Diego Spirits Festival .

Reviews and Reception

Independent reviews have examined the NEAT Glass's impact on tasting experiences. In 2012, The Scotch Noob, a whisky blog, evaluated the NEAT Glass's aroma-enhancing features, comparing it to other popular glass styles. Whiskey Belfast also discussed the glass's design in a 2014 review, noting its introduction to the UK and Irish markets. These reviews highlighted the differences in aroma perception when using the NEAT Glass.