Who knows how many of us have actually noticed it and wondered why, while others, even if they did notice, didn't give it much thought. Beer bottles, at least some of them, can, upon closer inspection, even be the same size (whether 330, 500, or 660 cl), come in different shapes. Even if the capacity is the same, the shape of the bottle itself isn't, which can have a more or less elongated neck and a central body that's sometimes more ‘curved', so to speak, or sometimes more slender.
It doesn't take much to notice: just go to any bar and take a look at the fridge where the bottles are stored. That said, why aren't all bottles the same shape? And how many different types are there?
What Are The Main Types of Beer Bottles?
Some might think it's a design issue, making a bottle more or less appealing and recognizable among the vast assortment of beers a customer must browse before making a purchase. Some bottles are probably made more distinctive for this very reason, but in reality the reason is entirely different. Craft beers are mostly differentiated by their bottle shape and neck, sometimes more or less elongated, although even the more industrially produced ones can have the same appearance.
Basically, there are various types of bottles: from Longnecks, with a long, narrow neck (the most common shape), to Ales, with a wider base, through to NRWs with a narrower neck and mostly half-litre capacities, Steines with a more wavy neck and Spumante bottles with a narrower neck, defined as ‘cigarette'.
Each type of beer has its ideal bottle, which is essential to avoid overheating it with the heat of your hands. The neck is usually elongated to ensure a better grip and prevent it from slipping. Furthermore, the longer neck allows more room for the head, which is essential for better preservation of the liquid underneath.
Generally, a bottle with a long, narrow neck is used for pale beers, while dark, more alcoholic beers have a wider shape and a short neck. If you decide to pour your beer from the bottle into a mug, you might notice whether or not it leaves behind the so-called Brussels lace.
Why Do Beer Bottles Have Different Colors?
Not only their shape, some bottles also differ from others in their color. We find brown, green, and in some cases even transparent (a bit like those of wine or oil), and here the fundamental concept is that of conservation.
To best preserve beer, darker glass is used, which blocks light and thus prevents its negative effects on the beer. Therefore, it's best to avoid transparent or green bottles, and in these cases the reason for using them is mostly marketing-related, as they make them more recognizable to the public. Craft breweries, not surprisingly, use darker bottle types to ensure the quality and preservation of the beverage.
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