If you’ve ever ordered a pint in a British pub, chances are it arrived in a nonic pint glass—the classic glass with a subtle bulge just below the rim. At first glance, it may seem like a simple design choice, but that small curve plays a surprisingly important role in durability, comfort, and the overall beer-drinking experience.
From busy pubs to modern craft beer bars, the nonic glass has become one of the most recognizable and widely used pint glasses in the world.
A Brief History of the Nonic Glass
The word “nonic” comes from the phrase “no nick,” referring to the glass’s resistance to chipping. The design was patented in 1913 by Hugo Pick, a manufacturer from Bridgeport, Connecticut.
Interestingly, the glass did not become immediately popular in the United States. Instead, it gained widespread adoption in the United Kingdom after World War II, when pubs needed durable and practical glassware that could withstand heavy use.
Since then, the nonic pint glass has become a staple in British pubs and has spread to bars and breweries across the globe.
What Makes the Nonic Glass Unique?
1. Built for Durability
The most noticeable feature of the nonic glass is the bulge just below the rim. This seemingly minor detail dramatically improves the glass’s durability.
When glasses are stacked, the bulges prevent the rims from touching each other. This reduces the chances of chipping—a common problem with straight-sided glasses. If a glass gets knocked over, the bulge also absorbs some of the impact before the rim hits the surface.
