While we at the Cocktail Project are not shallow at heart, we must admit: the way a cocktail looks can be pretty important. Presentation is a big part of bartending. It can make the difference between serving up a good drink versus an amazing cocktail experience. So, we spend time thinking about the shape of our ice and the way we garnish. And, of course, we pay attention to the cocktail glassware.
With so many choices out there, stocking your bar with glasses can get intimidating. But that’s why we’re here. Let’s explore the essentials and discuss why they might just be the right fit for your home bar setup.
THE ESSENTIAL TYPES OF COCKTAIL GLASSES:
Highball Glass
This classic is named after the simple to make and easy to enjoy Highball—comprised of a base spirit and a large portion of a non-alcoholic mixer (often a carbonated beverage like soda). The tall, thin form typically holds between 8 and 12 ounces. With plenty of space for ice, it will keep drinks nice and cold while preserving that invigorating carbonation.
Perfect for:
Jim Beam Apple Highball
Old Fashioned Glass
Another glass named after a famous cocktail, though it sometimes goes by the name ‘lowball’ or ‘rocks’ glass. Coming in around 6 to 10 ounces with a low profile, it’s perfect for serving spirits on the rocks or stirred cocktails strained over ice such as a Negroni or Old Fashioned (bet you didn’t see that one coming).
Perfect for:
Knob Creek® Rye Old Fashioned
Martini Glass
Perhaps one of the most iconic cocktail glasses out there, these are perfect for martinis of any sort (Appletini anyone?), along with any classic drink you may serve ‘up’ (chilled without ice). Holding the cocktail by the long stem means the heat from your hands won’t warm the liquid, keeping your cocktail as cool as it looks.
Perfect for:
Haku Martini
Shot Glass
Not sure how much we need to elaborate on the shot glass. Typically sized at a standard 1.5 ounces, these are great for...shots. Whether you’re serving a side of bourbon with a highball or mixing up something fun like the Pumpkin Spice Shot, it’s always good to have a couple of these around.
Perfect for:
SQRRL PB&J Shot
Coupe Glass
Originally created for Champagne, the coupe has found renewed life in modern cocktail bars serving drinks sans ice, also known as ‘up’ (remember the martini glass?). This shallow, broad-bowled glass typically holds between 4.5 to 9 ounces and makes for a classy-looking cocktail every time.
Perfect for:
Hemingway Daiquiri
HONORABLE MENTION:
Wine Glass
Yes, they’re great for a buttery Chardonnay, but the cocktail lover shouldn’t shy away from this versatile piece of drinkware. It is perfect for serving up spritzes and Spanish-style gin and tonics.
Perfect for:
Maker’s Mark Bourbon Spritz
Flute
If you’ve ever been out to brunch you’re bound to be familiar. They’re fun, fancy and perfect for champagne cocktails like mimosas, bellinis and the ever-opulent French 75.
Perfect for:
French 75
