Which glass for which cocktail?

The glass is an essential element of the experience offered when tasting a cocktail. The container is indeed, in mixology as in gastronomy, just as important as the content. An elegant, clean and fresh glass, decorated with well-chosen and adapted decorations, gives a first taste of the cocktail and invites its tasting.

Although there are some rules and conventions when it comes to matching glassware to cocktails, it is above all the personality of the bartender that is expressed through his choice of container and the "personal touch" he wishes to add to it. Choose a glass that inspires you, that you find elegant or fancy and put your own stamp on it with decorations to your taste!

Here is a small glossary that will help you find your way among the many glasses used in cocktail recipes.

The Collins glass (or Highball). This glass owes its name to the classic Tom Collins cocktail. The Collins glass, with a capacity of 10 to 16oz (300 to 480ml), announces a thirst-quenching cocktail. Indeed, this type of long and narrow glass lends itself well to fresh and refreshing cocktails.

The martini glass or cocktail glass. An icon of cocktails, this glass is distinguished by its funnel shape on a high foot. Containing 3 to 6 oz (90 to 180ml) of alcohol, it is designed for cocktails with a high concentration and served very cold. Indeed, it should be noted that stemmed glasses prevent you from warming the alcohol with your hand when tasting.

The shot glass. These glasses are 1 to 2 oz (30-60 ml) in size and are often associated with a moment of celebration. They are usually drunk in one gulp.

The whisky glass, tasting glass. The glasses dedicated to the tasting of certain strong alcohols such as whisky or cognac, have a rounded shape allowing to concentrate the aromas and subtleties of these spirits.

The TIKI glass. The ceramic TIKI glass is the ideal container for exotic cocktails. With their vintage styles, TIKI glasses are perfect for preparing cocktails like the Mai-Tai or the Zombie.

The coupette or champagne glass. The coupette is used to serve much the same cocktails as the martini glass. This type of glass is designed to hold just enough alcohol for one drink. Legend has it that its shape was modeled on the breast of Marie Antoinette of Austria.

The cup. Heat-resistant glass with a handle for easy handling. It is a perfect container for making hot cocktails.

The Old Fashioned Glass. A short, sturdy glass with a capacity of 8 to 10 oz (240 to 300 ml). This is the glass of choice for dry cocktails served "on the rocks". Note that the bottom of an Old Fashioned glass is generally very thick, which allows it to "absorb" the shocks when stirring the sugar, bitters and fruits, directly in the glass.