The Niall
The Niall is a cognac glass designed to improve nosing and tasting. The glass is made of soda-lime glass, a material that absorbs ethanol vapour from the liquid. A conical depression at the base, named the Vortex Point, controls the flow of the poured spirit and creates a swirl. The bulb curves in and out to slow the rising vapour, giving the glass walls more time to absorb it. A thick base and an elevated stem allow a comfortable grip without warming the drink. Reduced ethanol vapour lets the drinker sense more of the aroma and flavour.