When it comes to creating great cocktails at home, it's not just about the ingredients and techniques; the right glassware plays a crucial role in maximising your drinking enjoyment. Each type of glass is designed to complement specific cocktails, bringing out the flavours, aromas, and aesthetics of your drink. Three types of glassware can cover all of your cocktail needs: the Coupe, the Rocks Glass, and the Highball and by equipping yourself with these three glasses, paired with plenty of ice and a relevant garnish, you’ll take your home cocktail game to the next level.
Glass design is very much a matter of personal taste but generally speaking, having something with a decent weight to it will give your drink a premium feel and enhance your enjoyment even further.
1. The Coupe or Martini Glass: Elegance in simplicity
When to Use It: The Coupe glass is a classic choice for serving cocktails that are typically stirred or shaken with ice and then strained. It's perfect for drinks that are meant to be enjoyed slowly and appreciated for their complexity. If you have room in your freezer, it’s wise to chill them beforehand as cocktails served in a coupe or martini glass are usually served without ice.
Examples of Cocktails:
Martini
Manhattan
French 75
Why It Matters: The Coupe's wide bowl and shallow design allow the drinker to fully appreciate the aroma of the cocktail. The elegant shape also makes it an excellent choice for showcasing visually appealing cocktails. Chilling your glasses beforehand can help maintain the drink's temperature without excessive dilution.
2. The Rocks Glass: For sipping and savouring
When to Use It: The Rocks glass, also known as an Old Fashioned glass, is ideal for cocktails that are served over ice or drinks that don't require dilution with additional mixers.
Examples of Cocktails:
Old Fashioned
Whiskey Sour
Negroni
Why It Matters: The Rocks glass is designed to accommodate ice and provide ample space for stirring and sipping. It allows the drink to slowly evolve as the ice melts, making it perfect for extended enjoyment. The sturdy base and wide mouth also make it easy to muddle ingredients when necessary.
3. The Highball Glass: Tall and refreshing
When to Use It: The Highball glass is the go-to choice for tall, refreshing cocktails that contain a mix of spirits and non-alcoholic ingredients, such as soda, tonic or juice.
Examples of Cocktails:
Mojito
Tom Collins
Gin and Tonic
Why It Matters: The Highball glass's tall, narrow design is perfect for drinks that rely on effervescence or multiple layers of flavours. It provides ample space for ice and mixers, allowing for a well-balanced and refreshing cocktail. The straight sides also make it easy to build the drink, layering ingredients for a visually appealing presentation.
