The origin of the Stein dates back to the 14th century, it was originally called "Steinzeugkrug".  Which translated from German into English means stoneware jug.  During the early 16th century, primarily due to the bubonic plaque, Germany made it law that all beverage and food containers had a cover as protection against germs and such.  this is when the lids were added to the steins, combined with a hinge and thumblift so that they could be easily opened with one hand.  Therefore, a stein is always a "jug" with a lid, and jug withoug a lid is known as a mug and not a stein.  At Alpine Boutique we carry a large variety of both, steins and mugs and also a selection of beer glasses (with German beer brewery logos), decorative shot glasses and also German wine glasses.  Below is a sampling of some of these beautiful collector and user-friendly items, made in Germany.