From juice glasses to Mason jars, chances are, you’re likely to love a good cocktail no matter what it’s served in. But the truth is, having the proper glass for your drink of choice does make a difference. Each is designed according to the beverages it’s intended for, shaped to trigger the senses with every sip.Today, smack in the middle of the most celebratory season, we’re sharing five types of glasses for those looking to properly stock a home bar. We’re also taking the guesswork out of grown-up glassware — along with suggestions for drinks to serve in each. Whether it’s a coupe glass for your daiquiri, a highball for your gin fizz, or a rocks glass for some DEWAR'S on ice, get ready for an elegant and easy upgrade to your merrymaking. It’s the time of year to raise your glass — in more ways than one.
Wine Glass
For those just starting their glassware collection, a quality wine glass that’s suitable for both reds and whites is a great place to begin. We recommend a stemmed glass — stems help keep your hands off the glass so your drink stays cold — but those without are an elegant option, too. Across the board, look for a simple, embellishment-free glass that’s easy to hold. Then, use it to serve red, white, rosé, and wine-based cocktails like sangria and Aperol spritzers.
Martini Or Coupe Glass
Both the classic V-shaped martini glass and the rounder — and very hip — coupe are ideal vessels for a variety of cocktails served sans ice. (They’ll stay cool, though, thanks to their stems.) Serve martinis in the V-shaped glass and pull out the coupe for other cocktails that don’t require ice or carbonation — they’ll lose it fast thanks to the glass’s shallow depth. Try a potent Corpse Reviver if you’re in the mood for a pick-me-up or a classic daiquiri to instantly channel island vibes.
Highball Glass
Use a highball glass to serve cocktails that are more mixer than spirit. Tall and slim, they’re also a good choice for carbonated beverages to retain long-lasting snap. Think of this style as the spirit equivalent of a Champagne glass — or any sort of mixed drink meant to be served over ice. Pour in a gin fizz, vodka soda, or any alcohol-with-soda blend, for that matter.
Old Fashioned Or Rocks Glass
These glasses are short, round, and meant to hold ice cubes, which is why they’re also known as “rocks glasses.” Use them for drinks that you build in the glass, like a negroni, whiskey sour, and, of course, an Old Fashioned. Or, skip the mixing and serve a quality spirit, like DEWAR'S 12, either neat or over ice. Whatever your choice, just remember to breathe in before you sip — the glass’ wide mouth is designed so that you’ll appreciate the alcohol’s unique aroma as well as its taste.
Champagne Flute
Ready to retire the red plastic cups for your New Year’s toast? Pick up a proper set of flutes, which are shaped to enhance the flavor of Champagne — and maintain its carbonated fizz. Use your new glasses for any sort of sparkling wine, including Prosecco, or Cava, or for sparkling wine cocktails. Think: Bellinis, mimosas, and French 75s. Beware of the too-tall flute, however; these are hard to hold and can easily break — which won’t exactly contribute to a sparkling evening.
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