Kwak (less commonly used full name "Pauwel Kwak") is a Belgian strong pale ale brewed by Brouwerij Bosteel in the town of Buggenhout, Belgium. Although a very good beer in its own right this
particular Belgian ale is probably best known for its signature, branded glassware, which is a smaller version of a yard style glass complete with wooden stand. This type of drinking vessel was more traditionally known as a coachman's beer glass, reputedly designed to make it easier for drivers of horse-drawn carriages to be served beer while they were making stops along the road.
The "Kwak Pipe" is a
roughly 10 inch high ensemble of branded Pauwel Kwak glass fitting into its also branded wooden stand with
integrated handle, designed so that the glass, which is not stable on its own, can be handled within the wooden stand and holder.
The
appearance of a Kwak served in its traditional glass at a bar is often a source of interest to other bargoers. It is not unusual for patrons seeing the glassware to pipe up with inquiries about the beer or orders for one of the same. The very signature glassware is what I
personally refer to as a "Kwak Pipe".
