Welcome, fellow cocktail enthusiasts! Today, we're going to embark on a journey through the fascinating world of cocktail glasses. The right glass can elevate a good cocktail to a great one, enhancing not just the flavor and aroma, but also the overall aesthetic and presentation.
To have a well-stocked bar, certain styles of glassware are essential while others are simply optional. However, it's important to note that having every type of glassware is not necessary for making great cocktails at home. While many cocktail recipes recommend specific types of glasses, no law says they must be used, but it might feel odd not to use that V-shaped Martini glass when having that classic cocktail.
So, let's dive right in and explore the best glasses for cocktails that every home bartender should have in their bar.
Modern Cocktail Glass Design
There are endless varieties of cocktail glasses you can choose from, including frosted, painted, and unique stem shapes. Stemless cocktail glasses are trendy, but it's worth noting that stems serve a purpose. The stem keeps the drinker's body heat from warming up the drink as they hold it. Keeping a non-iced drink colder for a longer time is crucial, so use the stem, rather than cupping the bowl of the glass in your palm.
Another modern trend is that cocktail and wine glasses are often made larger. Some cocktail glasses hold up to 10 ounces, whereas the original cocktail glasses tended to be much smaller. These big glasses take up too much room and they aren't needed. Classic cocktails are mainly drinks that are primarily made up of liquor. As a result, these potent drinks are generally only 3 to 5 ounces in volume, especially if you are sticking true to a traditional recipe.
Try finding cocktail glasses that are around 6 ounces in size. Having some space in the glass can help prevent spills when carrying it, you won't overserve your guests, and the cocktail will look aesthetically pleasing in the proper size glass. Keep it classy.
All that said, let's explore the glasses you should have and why.
Highball and Collins Glasses
The Collins glass and highball glass are very similar and can be used for tall drinks interchangeably. However, they have slight differences in shape. The Collins glass is tall and narrow with a chimney shape while the highball glass is sturdier and usually can hold up to 10 ounces.
Tall and straight-sided, they're the perfect choice for serving 'tall' cocktails, typically those mixed with a large proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer and served with ice. The height of the glass allows for the ideal balance of your spirit and mixer, while the straight sides maintain the carbonation of fizzy mixers.
Classic cocktails served in a highball glass include the Gin and Tonic, Bloody Mary, and Mojito.
On a tangent about the modern Bloody Mary, the current trend is to serve them in pint glasses or larger, as every bartender tries to top each other by stuffing more comfort food in the glass than there is cocktail.
Old-Fashioned Glass
Next, we have the Old-Fashioned glass. This type of glass is commonly referred to as a "lowball" or "rocks" glass. It has a shorter and wider shape than the highball glass and is most appropriate for "short" cocktails that contain a higher ratio of spirits and are served over ice.
The wide brim allows for the aroma of the cocktail to reach your nose, enhancing the overall tasting experience. As the name suggests, the Old Fashioned cocktail is traditionally served in this type of glass.
The double rocks glass is just simply that, a larger version to hold a "double" of the cocktail of choice. Smaller rocks glasses can also be used to serve a straight pour of liquor known as "neat", which usually refers to a dark spirit like whiskey.
Shot Glass
When it comes to drinking games or taking shots, a shot glass is an essential component of the experience. Shot glasses are usually made with thicker glass at the bottom to avoid breakage when the drinker slams it on the bar after drinking.
This small glass typically holds around 1.5 ounces of liquor and often features embossed markings to measure out the perfect amount of alcohol. Shot glasses come in a variety of styles, from plain clear glass to flashy designs incorporating fun quotes or images. While they may seem simple in appearance, shot glasses play a significant role in the social aspect of drinking and add a touch of class to your cocktail hour.
These miniature glasses were initially used to measure alcohol, dating back to the 17th century. As their popularity grew, they became a symbol of celebration and a collector's item for many. So whether you're looking to do a round of shots with friends or enjoy a small serving of your favorite spirit, a shot glass is a must-have addition to your barware collection.
Margarita Glass
The Margarita glass, with its distinctive shape – wide rim, tapered bowl, and tall stem – is a must-have for any cocktail lover, but it's one design designated to serve just one type of cocktail. This design allows you to enjoy the visual appeal of the cocktail, while the wide rim is perfect for a salt or sugar rim, adding an extra dimension to your drink.
While festive, is not necessary for enjoying a margarita or Paloma as these drinks can be served in other types of glasses such as a cocktail, old-fashioned, or highball glass.
Cocktail or "Martini" Glass
The cocktail glass, with its cone shape and long stem, is often called a "martini" glass, as it is the most popular drink served in this style of glass. Cocktail glasses are used for drinks between 3 and 6 ounces that are most often served "up" without ice. This includes a variety of martini-style cocktails such as the Cosmopolitan and many classic cocktails, from the Manhattan to the Sidecar.
The design isn't just about a sophisticated look; it has a purpose. The long stem on the traditional martini glasses is intended to keep your hand from warming the cocktail, while the wide bowl is designed to release the aromas of the cocktail.
Champagne Flute
Champagne flutes, known for their tall, narrow bowl and long stem, are designed to showcase the effervescence of your bubbly drinks. That design keeps the champagne bubbles in the glass longer, while the long stem prevents your hand from warming the drink. The tall simple elegance of a fluted glass showcases a drink's garnish as well. Champagne cocktails such as the Mimosa or Bellini are perfect for them.
A more traditional design for serving sparkling wines is the Champagne saucer, also known as a coupe glass, which features a flatter and rounder bowl. can hold approximately 6 to 8 ounces, making saucers a great option for serving straight Champagne to multiple guests at holiday parties or special events. The vintage coupe glass is a great option when serving cocktails and looks especially nice when topped with a larger slice of fruit.
There is another variety of champagne glass, the tulip glass. Not as common, but quite elegant, they are typically very ornate, and the bowl flares out, not in as the flute does.
Wine Glasses
Finally, let's not forget about wine glasses. Red wine glasses have a wider bowl to allow the wine to breathe, enhancing its flavors. To properly aerate red wine, it's important to use glassware with a larger and rounder bowl which makes it easier to swirl the wine in. Additionally, a long stem should be used to avoid warming up the wine with your hand.
White wine glasses, on the other hand, are narrower and taller, to preserve the temperature and delicate flavors of the wine. White wine glasses are designed with a smaller mouth area, which results in a smaller surface area for aeration. This prevents white wine from oxidizing too quickly, preserving its lighter and more delicate flavors. While not typically used for cocktails, these glasses are suitable for cocktails made with wine such as Sangria or a Spritz.
If You Have The Room...
Some other cocktail or bar glasses are more specialty than they are commonly used, but if that's your flavor, you may want to consider them. Varieties such as cordial glasses, come in many styles but are typically shorter as the cocktails they carry are smaller in volume.
A brandy snifter is made for just that spirit, with a large bowl compared to the standard 2 oz. pour that enables the drinker to swirl and release the aromas of the brandy inside the glass. Several glasses are made for specific drinks, such as Hurricane or Irish Coffee glasses to consider as well.
You Can Clearly See
Now that you know the essential bar glasses for any beginning or seasoned mixologist, you know what to stock your bar with for maximum enjoyment and appreciation of all your handmade masterpieces.
From martinis to Manhattan's, an old fashioned to whiskey sours, it's imperative to have an array of glassware shapes and sizes so your cocktails can shine like never before. The right vessels will not only lead to elevated experiences but they will keep your cocktail aesthetics in check.
And last but not least, if you're going to put in the time and effort in making these delicious drinks – why not do them justice by having the right glassware at the ready?
FAQ
What is the best type of glass for a martini?
The best martini glass is typically a classic V-shaped glass or a coupe glass, depending on personal preference. Both are designed to showcase the martini's aroma and flavor effectively.
Are dishwasher-safe cocktail glasses worth it?
Yes, dishwasher-safe cocktail glasses offer great convenience, especially for those who entertain often. They are durable and can withstand regular use, making them a practical choice for most home bars.
How do I choose glasses for a new cocktail bar?
Start with versatile pieces like highball, coupe, and rocks glasses. Assess your menu to determine if you need specialized glasses like martini or Nick and Nora glasses. Opt for quality materials like lead-free crystal to ensure durability and clarity.
BRIAN M JACKSON
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