We’ve long believed that good coffee deserves more than a common mug. After all, it’s the first thing we reach for in the morning and can set the mood for the entire day. That’s why we’ve put a lot of thought and care into our newest collaboration with Metric Coffee, a Chicago roaster that also happens to be our neighbor in the West Loop neighborhood.
Metric is featured in our Fall catalog with our new Double Wall Cafe Tumblers. We’re always looking for good functional design, and we discovered it in this striking and highly functional glassware that elevates the art of coffee drinking. On first glance, the tumblers are reminiscent of a classic café style, yet their leaner edge gives them altogether modern appeal.
Each is handmade from Borosilicate glass, a special kind of glass that’s resistant to temperature change. Hot or cold, these tumblers can handle it (Borosilicate is actually quite often used in extreme chemistry experiments). In fact, they’re crafted purposefully with a double wall to allow hot beverages to stay toasty, and also keep cold drinks chilled without messy condensation.
Never used glassware for coffee? It’s actually the way to go, because glass doesn’t imbue any off-putting flavors, says Connor Smith, content manager and café educator at Metric. “[And] on the aesthetic side, it provides a sharp, clean vibe. We know that the experience and presentation of our coffees plays a significant role in customers’ thoughts about our work, so we want to exercise the same intentionality we put into sourcing, roasting and brewing into these aspects.”
The luscious Metric espresso, featured in our photo, has an interesting backstory: Like all Metric blends, the espresso is made from beans roasted on a self-restored 1961 Probat UG 15. The vintage machine produces exceptionally well balanced, sweet and clean coffees. For Metric, it represents the perfect meeting of old-world method and modern technology.
We couldn’t agree more. Unison and Metric have a shared love of fine, timeless craftsmanship and creative spirit. “Really everyone on Metric’s small team is an artist in some auxiliary field; some of us write, play music, take photographs,” says Smith. “Being a bunch of human creators, we’re attracted to others of that ilk regardless of their field.”
We also both see the value of gathering together, sharing drinks and conversation. From simple family meal to full-on party, these tumblers will enhance the mood. Choose three glass sizes: small, medium and large. You’ll find a use for each, especially when it comes to coffee. Small is perfect for espresso, Medium is ideal for coffee and Large is an excellent option for latte.
“Overall, an ideal vessel just needs to feel good in the hand and not add unwanted flavors; it should operate as a seamless middleman, so you can focus on the coffee and the company you’re with,” says Smith.
Whether it’s a rise-and-shine double shot or an after-dinner decaf, we know you’ll enjoy each sip from these tumblers.
