Glassware Matters: The Basics Every Home Bartender Should Know
If you’ve ever wondered whether the glass you pour a cocktail into really makes a difference—the answer is yes... and also, not really. Let us explain.
When it comes to glassware, the feeling you get from holding a beautiful glass is often more important than the technical specs. As we like to say:
“You should drink your cocktail out of whatever glass makes you feel the fanciest.”
That said, glassware does influence temperature, aroma, carbonation, and even flavor perception—so it helps to know the basics. Here’s your go-to guide to the three main types of cocktail glasses (plus a few fun extras).
Coupe (aka “The Coop”)
The coupe is the original champagne glass, and today it’s a staple for classic and modern cocktails alike. Pronounced “coop,” this stemmed glass is elegant, balanced, and widely used as a catch-all for spirit-forward or up-style drinks.
Great for:
Martinis
Manhattans
Sidecars
Daiquiris
Why it works:
The stem helps you avoid warming the drink with your hand, while the wide bowl makes it easy to sip spirit-forward, stirred, or shaken cocktails without ice.
2. Rocks Glass (aka Lowball or Old Fashioned Glass)
There are two common types of rocks glasses:
Standard rocks glass (about 9 oz)
Double Old Fashioned glass (11–12 oz)
These short, sturdy glasses are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for drinks served over ice, and can even hold a small sour or a longer drink when needed.
Great for:
Old Fashioneds
Whiskey Sours
Negronis
Mezcal Mules
Why it works:
The wide mouth and weighty feel make these perfect for stirred drinks or anything you want to slow-sip over ice. This is your most flexible piece of glassware.
3. Highball Glass
The highball is a tall, narrow glass designed specifically for carbonated cocktails. Its vertical shape reduces the surface area at the top of the drink, which means bubbles escape more slowly—keeping your drink fizzy for longer.
Great for:
Gin & Tonic
Mojito
Paloma
Dark & Stormy
Why it works:
Smaller surface area = less carbonation loss. That’s why champagne flutes work the same way. Highballs are ideal for anything light, long, and sparkling.
Honorable Mentions
Not all drinks fit neatly into the “big three” categories. Here are a few other types of glassware that deserve a shoutout:
Tiki Mugs: Opaque, heavy, and often kitschy in the best way—these mugs hide the murky look of tropical cocktails that taste better than they appear.
Nick & Nora Glass: A more compact, delicate cousin of the coupe. Perfect for smaller martinis and spirit-forward cocktails.
Julep Cup: A chilled metal cup used for serving—you guessed it—Mint Juleps. It stays icy cold and looks great with a giant mint garnish.
The Bottom Line?
Glassware should enhance the experience, not stress you out. Use what you have, invest in a few core pieces, and most importantly—choose what feels fun and celebratory to you.
Want to learn how to pair the right glass with the perfect cocktail (and make it beautifully every time)?
Join us for an upcoming Mixo class—we’ll teach you the science and the flair.
