Glassware Guide

We say ‘Glassware’ and yet drinks are served in many different vessels, especially these days. What it’s made from, how thick it is, the shape and size, will all have an impact on the drink itself. So, making the best out of what you can get your hands on is vital, and we wholeheartedly encourage you to get creative!

Understanding Glassware & Otherware

Although glassware isn’t technically a garnish, it has a huge impact on the overall look and experience of the drink. Some beautifully elegant cocktails don’t have or need a garnish, the glass IS the garnish.

There are classic glass shapes used for specific drinks and cocktails, and it’s important to be able to recognise and categorise any glass on sight, so that they can be put to use appropriately. This is because glass manufacturers are always producing new modern designs and updating classic styles. You can also find some of the most interesting glasses in charity stores, vintage markets or garage sales.

So we’re going to introduce you to the different traditional families of glassware shapes, and this will then allow you to pick the best glass or vessel for what you need depending on the drink you are making.

There are plenty of categories of glass shapes that crossover, so, don’t get yourself too worked up about it. If you like it, it looks cool, and works for your drink, then go for it.

Bottom line, this is a guide to help you understand how to classify different shaped drinking vessels so that you can decode recipes and make the best decisions…

…If you only have a small saucepan to drink out of? Well that would be considered a low ball, so use appropriately!