Matthew Cummings - Pretentious Beer and Glass Co.

I’ve never once set foot inside Pretentious Beer and Glass Co. down in the Old City; however, I’ve always wanted to. Possibly it’s never happened because I’m lazy and don’t venture down there that often; possibly it’s because it’s probably really expensive and I’d much rather spend my time and money more frugally. Regardless, I heard about and have researched Pretentious Beer and Glass Co., actually, through social media. If anyone knows me, they know I love to cook and that I love to try to eat and cook new foods. For that reason, I like to follow a lot of chefs, restaurants, and pretentious foodies on Instagram. And since turning 21 this past summer, the doorway to trying new alcoholic beverages was finally opened. Hence, I decided to take a look at the popular craft beer enthusiasts on social media as well. That is when I came across Pretentious Beer and Glass Co. It turns out, this gentrified little taproom and glassblower studio was started by a glass artist named Matthew Cummings here in Knoxville. There, he creates very intricate and almost-nauseatingly-hipster beer glasses. While the word “hipster” may carry some negative connotations, the artisanship and design of the glasses are truly amazing. After looking at the prices online, I don’t think I could justify buying the glasses for myself until my paygrade rises quite significantly. Still, the art of it all really appeals to me and I hope to someday have a cool glass or two from this shop. I’d highly recommend at least giving them a google or search in the ole Instagram, even if you don’t enjoy beer or appreciate hipsters. Their shop is located in the Old City and they also have an Etsy store online where they sell their glasses.

If interested in how he makes his glasses or if you want to see a very highly-edited and interested video sponsored by Coors Banquet ©, here’s a link to a video they have posted on their website: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Um5G2JG2Q8g&feature=youtu.be