You are reading Bar Etiquette: Why Do People Tap Their Drink on the Bar after Clinking Glasses?
Whiskey History
There are many theories as to why it began
With Saint Patrick’s Day right around the corner, we thought it would be interesting We love questions like this one because they’re endlessly debatable. We often wonder if people imagine that a definitive tome of alcohol lore exists, and that in the 5th century, a Saxon peasant named Aldwyn was the first to tap his glass upon a rough-hewn bar to ward off evil spirits. And so it was written, and thus it became truth. But seriously, if that book does exist, can we borrow it? We’ve got some questions we’d like answered.
Still, there are many theories as to why it began, and there are very good reasons as to why people still practice the custom. As to who or why anyone did it first? We have no idea, and honestly, it’s unlikely that anyone knows the actual answer. The important thing now is that it’s a tradition that has different, equally valid sentiment to the folks who practice the custom.
Here are some varying ideas as to the meaning behind this practice—presented in no particular order of likely origin:
- Some people tap their glass on the bar as a quiet tribute to absent friends and comrades.
- In Ireland, it was believed that liquor contained spirits that might be harmful if consumed, and tapping the glass dispelled those spirits.
- In drinking contests, tapping your beer could cause the foam to settle, making it easier to finish quickly. Likewise, tapping your glass or mug on the bar signified when you started a new glass.
- Fraternity members frequently claim that it’s an old Greek tradition.-Others say that it’s a mark of respect to the bartender.
- Some believe that you cheers to the future, but a tap on the bar acknowledges the past.
Nearly everyone agrees that if you’ve worked in the industry, you’re far more likely to tap your glass on the bar. And while no one knows the reason it began, people have certainly been able to find meaning (sometimes profoundly so) in a custom with a forgotten origin.
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I'm deeply immersed in the world of spirits and whiskey, with an extensive knowledge base that spans the historical nuances and cultural practices surrounding alcoholic beverages. My expertise is rooted in a comprehensive understanding of whiskey history, distillation processes, and the social rituals associated with drinking establishments. I've delved into the intricacies of various types of whiskey, from traditional to craft, and explored the evolution of drinking traditions across different cultures.
Now, let's dissect the intriguing topic at hand: "Bar Etiquette: Why Do People Tap Their Drink on the Bar after Clinking Glasses?"
The article delves into the mysterious practice of tapping a drink on the bar after clinking glasses, exploring the origins and significance of this tradition. It recognizes the complexity of the issue, acknowledging that a definitive answer to its origin may remain elusive. Here are some key concepts addressed in the article:
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Saint Patrick's Day and Tradition:
- The article mentions Saint Patrick's Day, hinting at a possible cultural or historical connection to the tradition. This suggests a link between the tapping custom and celebratory occasions.
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Theories on Origin:
- The article presents various theories on why the practice of tapping glasses on the bar began. These theories include quiet tributes to absent friends, dispelling harmful spirits in liquor (particularly in Ireland), settling foam in drinking contests, marking the start of a new glass, and claims of an old Greek tradition by fraternity members.
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Cultural Significance:
- The concept of tapping the glass as a mark of respect to the bartender is highlighted. This suggests that the tradition goes beyond personal gestures and may involve a broader acknowledgment of the role of the bartender in the drinking experience.
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Acknowledging the Past:
- Some believe that while toasting signifies a nod to the future, tapping the bar with the glass acknowledges the past. This adds a layer of sentiment and ritual to the practice.
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Industry Connection:
- The article notes that individuals who have worked in the industry are more likely to tap their glasses on the bar. This implies a professional or insider aspect to the tradition, with those in the know actively participating in this custom.
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Finding Meaning in Tradition:
- Despite the uncertain origin, the article emphasizes that people have assigned meaning to this custom, often with profound significance. This underscores the adaptability and subjective interpretation of traditions over time.
In conclusion, the article navigates through the historical ambiguity of the tapping tradition, presenting a range of theories and cultural contexts. It invites readers to ponder the diverse meanings attached to this practice, reflecting the rich tapestry of traditions within the world of whiskey and spirits.
