Need a last-minute Christmas idea? SanTan Brewing has new glasses

Just in time for a last-minute Christmas present for any beer lover, SanTan Brewing finally got its long-awaited new glassware today.

For those who’ve forgotten, Boston Beer Co., the maker of Sam Adams, made national headlines earlier this year when it threatened to sue the downtown Chandler brewery for violating what it claimed was its patent on the glass design.

Even though SanTan’s signature 18-ounce glasses had different dimensions and capacity than Boston’s, the local upstart simply couldn’t afford a protracted legal battle with the largest American-owned beer company in the United States.

So, for most of 2011, SanTan has been using generic glasses while it designed a new model with di Sciacca, the glass store in downtown Chandler, and awaited its arrival.

The new hand-blown glasses, one of which is pictured above being held by brewmaster Anthony Canecchia, are $8 apiece. SanTan also is offering a special gift pack of four glasses and a growler for $34.