Glassware
Glassware choice can be utilitarian: A stemmed cocktail glass keeps your hand from warming up a straight-up drink; a short, thick-walled old-fashioned glass allows room for chunky ice cubes and helps insulate your on-the-rocks cocktail; a tall collins glass keeps seltzer bubbles from dissipating too quickly. But beyond the essentials, it's also about tradition, preference, and what vibe you're going for. (For some, it's just not a margarita without a margarita glass!)
In the photos below we've gathered what we consider the essentials on the left side. For a practical bar that covers the basics, stick to those. If space and money are no object, you might add some of the specialty glasses gathered on the right side of the photo.
(Left to right)
Cocktail Glass: This iconic glass is needed for shaken or stirred cocktails served straight up (without ice). Choose a 6-ounce V-shaped martini glass or bowl-shaped coupe glass.
Old-Fashioned Glass: Also called a rocks glass, this is essential for countless stirred or shaken cocktails served usually (but not always) over ice. We recommend a 12-ounce size.
Wine Glass: A 12-ounce wine glass works just as well as a flute glass in any cocktail situation. We also use it for spritzes and frozen drinks.
Pint Glass: A 16-ounce pint glass is the right size for classic beer-based cocktails like the Michelada and for boozy milkshakes.
Mug: An An 8-ounce heatproof mug is essential for hot drinks like Irish Coffee, Mulled Cider, and a Hot Toddy.
(Left to right)
Margarita Glass: A 12-ounce glass is a fun option for all types of frozen drinks (though other glasses such as the old-fashioned or collins can be used instead).
Hurricane Glass: For frozen and tiki drinks, a 12-ounce version is a good alternative to the Margarita glass.
Tiki Glass: If you're really into tiki drinks, pick up a funky set of 12-ounce tiki cups or glasses.
Flute Glass: A 6-ounce flute glass is a nice option for Mimosas and Bellinis, as well as other fizzy cocktails.
Punch Cup: A set of 8-ounce punch cups is great for holiday parties if you have the space for them.
Collins Glass: A tall, narrow 12-ounce Collins glass (sometimes called a highball glass) is used for so-called long drinks, which are made with seltzer, juice, or other nonalcoholic mixers.
