What it is
A cocktail glass is a vessel intended for serving cocktails. Different types of glass are used for these drinks; for example, some cocktails are served in highball glasses or tumblers.
When to use it
Cocktails can be served in different types of glass. Highballs are used for long drinks and cocktails; tumblers are also suitable for a variety of cocktails and other drinks.
How to use it
Choose the vessel for the drink and handle it carefully. A highball glass is specified for some cocktails; do not assume that every glass style is interchangeable for every preparation.
How to choose it
The documented Queen’s Park Swizzle is built in a highball glass with crushed ice. Use the vessel specified by the recipe; Laudon Highball is intended for long drinks, while Optical O is also used for soft drinks and water.
Cleaning and storage
For the documented Duralex Picardie glass, wash before first use and avoid abrasive cleaners. Check the label on RIEDEL glasses: those marked for handwashing must not go in the dishwasher. Where the model allows machine washing, keep glasses separated so they cannot knock together.
Alternatives for each use
A highball glass or tumbler can be an alternative for certain cocktails. The choice depends on the drink: cocktail recipes do not all specify the same type of glass.
Safe use
Do not put hot contents in a cold glass or cold contents in a hot one. Remove abraded, cracked, or chipped glassware from use. In a dishwasher, leave space between glasses so they do not touch one another or other objects.
Frequently asked questions
Can every cocktail be served in this glass?
Not necessarily. Some cocktails are served in highball glasses, and tumblers are also suitable for a range of drinks and cocktails.
How can I reduce the risk of breakage from a temperature change?
Avoid moving glassware between temperature extremes. Let it reach room temperature before washing, and do not put hot drinks in cold glassware or cold drinks in hot glassware.
Can every cocktail glass go in the dishwasher?
Check the instructions for the particular glass. Glasses labelled for handwashing only or as not dishwasher-safe should be washed by hand. If using a dishwasher, leave enough space so the glasses do not touch.
Sources and review
Sources consulted for this utensil’s documented uses, care and characteristics.
- Libbey: Glassware care and handling shop.libbey.com/pages/care-and-handling
- RIEDEL: Glass care and use www.riedel.com/en-int/information-legal/glass-care-use
- Duralex: Glass use and care uk.duralex.com/pages/use-care
- RIEDEL: Pairings for different tumblers www.riedel.com/en-ro/faq/what-drinks-pair-best-with-the-different-riedel-tumblers
- Angostura: Queen’s Park Swizzle serving vessel angosturabitters.com/cocktail/cocktail-4/
