As a hobbyist mixologist, you may have found it confusing to stock your home bar with glassware. I mean, what’s a Nick & Nora, and do people still use V-shaped martini glasses anymore? After all, these items aren’t typically found in the average person’s home. But choosing the right glassware for your home bar doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive – we recommend starting with the type of glass appropriate for the cocktail(s) you typically enjoy and working your way up. Let’s not forget that at the end of the day you can serve your cocktail in a solo cup, it’s really dealer’s choice.
But if you do want to buy the proper glassware for cocktails because you want to elevate your passion with how the drink hits the nose and how the foam sits in the glass, then we hope this guide below will help you choose the right glassware for creating your favorite cocktails.
Surprisingly, one of the best places to buy glassware for cocktails is at your local antique or thrift store, as that’s where the beautiful stuff your grandparents used to have for entertaining ended up. Or, click the links to buy them online. Just be warned – buying and having the right glassware can be very addicting!
Serving it “Up”
Coupe
Coupe glasses are used for serving up most all stirred and shaken cocktails. If you’re looking for a first investment in cocktail glassware, this is it. Perfect for the classic Manhattan, Bees Knees, or Whiskey Sour.
Martini Glass
Your typical “V” shaped Martini Glass is the choice for Martinis and their variations. A staple at every martini bar you’ve ever been to.
Nick & Nora Glass
Similar to a coupe glass, the Nick & Nora Glass has a petite shape that is perfect for stirred cocktails. Use in place of coupe glasses for stirred drinks if you have them in your collection. Perfect for the classic Lion’s Tail or Vesper.
Champagne Flute
Cocktails that contain champagne (or sparkling wine) should go into a Champagne Flute. Its tall, skinny sides make it perfect for showing off that bubbly, like the classic French 75.
Wine Glass
Red Wine Glasses can be used for cocktails that require ice cubes and have wine as a main ingredient, like a sangria or Aperol Spritz.
Serving it “On The Rocks”
Old Fashioned Glass
Old Fashioned Glasses are used for – you guessed it – Old Fashioneds! Also known as rocks glasses or tumblers, these short glasses are best for stirred cocktails that are being served over one large ice cube.
Highball Glass
These look similar to a regular pint glass, except skinnier and without dramatic tapering . Also known as collins glasses, Highball Glasses are good for Gin Fizzes, slings, smashes, and other drinks served on the rocks.
Copper Mug
While you could always serve a Moscow Mule in a rocks glass, serving it in a Copper Mug over crushed ice is a more enjoyable experience. The copper also takes on the chilly temperature of the ice inside, aiding in keeping your drink cold.
Pilsner Glass
Pilsner Glasses (yes, the ones you use for light beers) also work great for swizzles or other cocktails served over crushed ice.
Punch Glass
These glasses are perfect for serving large quantities like punches, the short glasses like glass teacups are best because they’re easy to fill from your punch bowl and ladle.
Serving it Hot
Glass Coffee Mug
For cocktails served hot, like an Irish Coffee, nothing works better than a clear Glass Coffee Mug since it offers the opportunity watch the ingredients swirl together while building and drinking but still prove to be a functional glassware that will keep your cocktail at drinking temperature.
