7 Classic Cocktail Glasses Explained

We’re highlighting 7 key glass styles which home bartenders would do well to acquire, and learn why choosing the right glass for each serve is about much more than just aesthetics.

Collins Glass

The long and lean Collins glass takes its name, unsurprisingly, from the Tom Collins. Its height and narrow shape are designed—similarly to a Champagne flute—to preserve carbonation. Use a Collins glass for long and refreshing serves made with plenty of fizz and ice.

Perfect for: Tom Collins, Paloma, Harvey Wallbanger, Gin Fizz

Collins Glass

Highball Glass

A highball is an essential part of any glassware guide, and can be used for most drinks that are served long. Many industry professionals prefer it, in fact, to the Collins glass; its smaller size often makes for less dilution and a more balanced drink.

Perfect for: Mojito, Bloody Mary, Cuba Libre, Gin & Tonic

Highball Glass

Martini Glass

The wide brim of this glass allows for gin’s aromatics to shine, while its steep sides help keep garnishes in place. There’s no question: the Martini glass is a design icon in its own right, and no home bartender should be without a set. Can be substituted for a Coupe glass.

Perfect for: Dry or Dirty Martini, Cosmopolitan, Manhattan

Martini Glass

Champagne Flute

The narrow, unique shape of a flute is perfectly suited for Champagne cocktails, but can easily be swapped out for a coupe. The narrow top helps preserve carbonation, and the long stem prevents the cocktail from being affected by the heat of your hand while you drink it. 

Perfect for: Bellini, Kir Royale, Champagne (obviously), Mimosa

Champagne Flute

Old Fashioned Glass

The Old Fashioned glass refers to the venerable drink served in it, but also goes under the name ‘rocks’ as it is commonly used to serve pure spirits (on the rocks), or ‘lowball’ due to its similar design to the highball glass.

Perfect for: Whiskey, Negroni, Old Fashioned, Sazerac

Old Fashioned Glass

Copa/Balloon Glass

The wide bowl of the glass holds enough ice to keep the drink chilled for longer, has ample room for all manner of creative garnishes, and lets drinkers swirl and release bright aromas with every sip.

Perfect for: Gin & Tonic

Copa Glass

Moscow Mule Cup

These copper mugs are ideal for serving up the classic Moscow Mule made with vodka ginger beer and lime. The copper keeps the drink chilled, while the handle keeps your hands off the vessel helping to maintain a low temperature. Copper also helps bring out the tangy citrus notes from the lime.

Perfect for: Moscow Mule, Kentucky Mule, Mezcal Mule.

Moscow Mule Cup