The pint is an Anglo-Saxon format, used in Irish Pubs in Ireland to serve Irish beers. Considered a “large” size, this glass format is essentially used by the majority of Irish people when they go to the Pub to drink a Guinness, or any other Irish beer… It’s even become an institution! Also, you’ll rarely see a pub-goer drinking his beer from a glass of a different size and shape!
A pint of Irish beer – © 5ph
The origins of the pint date back to 1698, when the English government decided to standardize measurements by introducing an “imperial system of units” (symbolized by “pt”).
The pint was invented: from then on, it had to measure almost half a liter, or 0.568 261 25 liters, and be served in all pubs in England.
This made it possible to rationalize consumption, to avoid glasses that were supposedly less full than the neighbor’s, and to better control the flow of alcohol… (some Irish pubs were facing alcoholism problems at the time).
In addition, the new system prevented financial losses for Irish pub owners, who sometimes struggled to measure what they were serving. These better-sized lenses also enabled them to assess their loss/benefit balance more effectively.
By this time, this measurement system had spread to Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Each country is then obliged to use this new format in its drinking establishments. This format is legislated, and controls are even organized to ensure that all establishments use these new glasses. Failure to comply could result in some pretty hefty fines…
And after three centuries of use, the pint remains a success. It’s still an institution in Ireland and English-speaking countries (except in America, where the pint format is slightly different: 0.473 176 473 liters). In Ireland, this format remains the benchmark for beer service. It’s everywhere: in Irish pubs, restaurants…etc.
Nevertheless, the creation of this container has also led to the development of certain derivative formats, such as the half-pint, or the 2/3 pint, currently under negotiation within the British government.
A pint of Smithwick’s – © Torval Mork
Today, Irish Pubs continue to serve their beers in approved glasses.
This format has become an institution, and any Irishman would be outraged to see his beer served in a glass other than the traditional pint!
Leading beer brands such as Guinness, Murphy’s and Beamish have even taken advantage of this essential format to distribute branded glasses in drinking establishments.
Some enthusiasts even collect them. Guinness even recently released a sculpted version, with the harp appearing all the way up the glass! Original, isn’t it?
In Ireland, ordering a “pint” at the pub is often seen as a social act, a way of connecting with others. Sharing a glass is considered a gesture of friendship and conviviality… which is the very DNA of Irish culture!
A Beamish – James Cridland – cc
Beyond size, it’s important to warn you. If you’re not used to downing such big beers, you might as well ask for the intermediate format: the half-pint.
Although this is standard practice in the country, it can be destabilizing for those who are not used to it. (especially as it’s alcohol, not grenadine!). So it’s important to keep alcohol to a minimum, and to know how to keep it reasonable.
What’s more, the more you drink, the more frequent bathroom stops you’ll need! (CQFD).
Finally, if you’re worried about it being too big for you, go for the half pint (although it’s less profitable: 2 half pints, costing more than a normal pint).
Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Drink in moderation.
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