- Design
- Food
- Pop Culture
- Style
- DIY Classes
The Best Cocktail Glasses for Your Next Dinner Party
Nothing can make a night out or a dinner party more enjoyable than a well-crafted cocktail served in a stylish cocktail glass. After all, few things say “I know how to party” quite like the perfect cocktail set-up. But what type of cocktail glass should you choose? Don’t worry, we’ll be taking a look at the top cocktail glasses of 2024.
Here, we’ll cover everything from classic martini glasses to contemporary, fun highball glasses, and more. We’ve even included helpful buying tips so you can find the perfect glasses for your home bar that are sure to impress guests at your next gathering. So, grab your shaker and let's go!
Important Features- Includes four 18-ounce glasses
- Made from lead-free crystal glass
Important Features- Includes two 4.94-ounce glasses
- Dishwasher-safe design
Important Features- Includes two 11-ounce glasses
- Made from lead-free glass
Important Features- Includes two 7-ounce glasses
- Made with lead-free crystal glass
Important Features- Includes six 12-ounce glasses
- Made of lead-free glass
Comparing the Top Cocktail Glasses of 2024
The JoyJolt Gwen Cocktail Glasses boast a modern, “lava lamp” shape and are crafted from lead-free crystal with an 18-ounce capacity that guarantees every sip tastes its best. These glasses also boast a 2.5 to 3.25-inch grip and a 2.5-ounce heft that makes them comfortable to hold, even when holding the heaviest mixed drinks. They can be used to serve freshly squeezed juice, iced tea, mocktails, water, or beer without sacrificing style or comfort. Plus, these glasses are dishwasher-safe, making for effortless cleaning and care when not in use. And, since this set comes with a 12-month warranty, you can feel confident in its quality. With their impeccable aesthetic, durable build, and dishwasher-safe design, these glasses are easily the best on our list.
Pros- Thick and durable
- Large drink capacity
- Easy to clean
Cons- May be too thin for some
The Riedel Nick & Nora Cocktail Glasses offer an innovative design that’s been created in collaboration with spirits specialist Zane Harris, so they’re sure to offer a superior drinking experience. These elegant glasses are designed to deliver the perfect drink to the mid-palate, all without feeling the need to tilt your head back. This makes tasting your drink an effortless yet enjoyable process. The glasses themself are made from high-grade materials, making them both durable and dishwasher-safe for added convenience. And, since each set includes two 4.94-ounce glasses, they’re perfect for accommodating the occasional drinking partner.
Pros- Elegant 1930s-inspired look
- Durable and sturdy
- Easy to clean
- Small, sleek shape
Cons- Not suitable for larger cocktails
The KGnB Cocktail Glasses come in a set of two and are crafted with top-quality lead-free glass for a safe and enjoyable drinking experience. Each glass holds a generous 11 ounces, making them the perfect size for scotch, bourbon, cocktails, and vodka.
These glasses’ classic design makes them suitable for every special occasion or night out with friends. They provide elegance and convenience for all venues, including restaurants, bars, parties, and even at home. Even better, their size and shape provide versatility without sacrificing quality, ensuring your next gathering will be one to remember.
Pros- Durable and high-quality
- Firm brims improve your drinking experience
- Simple and clean design
Cons- Glasses aren’t dishwasher-safe
Coming in a set of two, the Viski Cocktail Glasses boast a 7-ounce capacity that makes them perfect for cocktails, dessert drinks, espresso, and more. Perfect for helping anyone make the bar of their dreams, they also make for an amazing housewarming gift or wedding gift. Not only that, but Viski’s eye-catching crystal design will add a luxurious touch to any home bar. From angled martini glasses to coupe glasses, each collection explores a timeless drinkware style. So, if you’re looking for a high-quality yet visually striking set of cocktail glasses, this might be just what you’re looking for.
Pros- Sturdy stem and base
- Features a unique bar style-inspired design
- Thin crystal with a crisp feel
Cons- Glasses aren’t dishwasher-safe
- Too fragile for some
The LEMONSODA Cocktail Glasses are the perfect way to elevate any home bar setting. First of all, each is crafted from lead-free glass for reliable durability and safety. Further, the set includes six 12-ounce glasses, which can be used for mojitos, gin, tonics, coffees, or water.
Most important, however, is this glass set’s high quality and impeccable aesthetic. These tall cocktail glasses stand out as an elegant addition to any party and are sure to impress guests with their sleek, premium design. Plus, they come in a deluxe gift box, making them the ideal present for any occasion.
Pros- Excellent craftsmanship and quality
- Thick base provides stability
- Beautiful packaging is perfect for gift giving
- Good price point
Cons- Glasses aren’t dishwasher-safe
Buying Guide: Cocktail Glasses
No matter if you’re someone that enjoys sipping on an old fashioned or loves a good Moscow mule, you need a set of quality cocktail glasses. Unfortunately, with so many available on the market, making a decision can be surprisingly tedious. When it comes to choosing the right cocktail glasses for your needs, there are several factors to take into consideration. With that in mind, we’ve put together a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you pick the perfect cocktail glasses.
Capacity and Weight
A cocktail glass’s size and capacity are important factors when it comes to choosing the right one. Whether you’re making a single drink or entertaining a large group, it’s important to select glasses that are large enough to accommodate your drinks without spilling. Always consider how much liquid each glass can hold before purchasing.
Additionally, it’s essential to consider how easy the glasses are to handle when full. Always go for cocktail glasses with an even weight distribution so they don’t tip easily when filled.
Material
When selecting cocktail glasses, decide what type of material you prefer for your barware. You can choose from glass or plastic depending on what fits your preference and budget. Glass offers a classic style and elegance, while plastic can be more practical for outdoor use due to its durability and lighter weight.
Style
Look for glasses that match the overall aesthetic of your bar or home. There is a wide range of styles available, from traditional tumblers to modern martini glasses and playful coupe shapes. Choose ones that fit in with the barware you already have as well as your entertainment style.
Durability
Good cocktail glasses should be able to withstand regular use without breaking or cracking too easily. If you’re going to be using them frequently for entertaining guests, make sure they’re made of stronger materials, like clear tempered glass, that won’t shatter easily if dropped or knocked over.
Price
Shop around for glasses within your budget so you get the best value out of your purchase. Don’t forget to factor in shipping costs and consider if buying in bulk will save you money overall.
Versatility
Look for glasses that can be used for a variety of drinks, not just cocktails. Some sets come with different-sized glasses, meaning they can also be used for beer, wine, juices, and water depending on your needs.
Design
If you want something a bit more eye-catching than plain tumblers or martini glasses, look for designer cocktail glasses with interesting designs and patterns that complement whatever drinks they hold inside them.
Ease of Cleaning
Some glasses are dishwasher-safe to help you with cleanup, but it’s generally best practice to hand wash your glassware. Certain glasses are even hand wash only — especially the more expensive ones — so always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Cocktail Glasses FAQ
Q: What is the best way to clean a cocktail glass?A: The best way to clean a cocktail glass is by hand. Use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth to gently wash the glasses, paying attention to the rims and bases. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh detergents that can scratch or damage the glass. After washing, make sure to rinse the cocktail glasses thoroughly to remove all soap residue. This is because soap residue can affect the flavour and appearance of cocktails. Use a clean, lint-free cloth or towel to dry the cocktail glasses thoroughly. Avoid air-drying, which can leave water spots or streaks on the glass.
Q: How do I store cocktail glasses?A: Store cocktail glasses in a clean and dry environment, away from dust and other contaminants. Use glass racks or shelves to prevent the glasses from touching each other, which can cause scratches or chipping. If your cocktail glasses lose their shine over time, you can polish them using a soft cloth or a specialised glass-polishing cloth to remove smudges or water spots. To keep your glasses in the best shape, avoid subjecting them to extreme temperatures, such as sudden changes from hot to cold or vice versa, as it can cause the glass to crack or break.
Q: Are cocktail glasses dishwasher-safe?A: Yes, cocktail glasses are generally dishwasher safe when placed in the top rack and labelled as dishwasher safe on their packaging. That said, hand washing them is more gentle and will help the glasses keep their sparkle longer.
Q: What is the difference between an old fashioned glass and a rocks glass?A: An old fashioned glass typically has a wider, shorter shape than a rocks glass. Additionally, an old fashioned glass is used for sipping drinks and cocktails, while a rocks glass is used for serving over-ice drinks like whisky or scotch on the rocks.
Q: How many ounces can a typical cocktail glass hold?A: A typical cocktail glass can usually hold 8 to 12 ounces of liquid, but some specialty glasses are made to hold up to 16 ounces or more.
Q: What type of glass should I use for a specific drink?A: There are certain types of glasses designed for certain types of drinks, such as martini glasses for martinis and margarita glasses for margaritas. For other types of drinks, you can use any kind of cocktail glasses that you prefer.
Q: Should I buy many different types of cocktail glasses for my bar?A: While it's important to have different types of glasses available depending on the cocktails you'll be serving, you don't necessarily need to purchase multiple sets of each type if you don't plan on serving large amounts of different drinks or have limited storage space. Try selecting six to eight different styles of glasses that will suit a variety of needs and hang onto extras for special occasions or large groups.
Q: How can I tell if a cocktail glass is high-quality?A: High-quality cocktail glasses should be made from durable materials like crystal, lead-free pewter, stainless steel, pewter plating, or thick tempered glass with no chips or scratches on them and smooth edges where possible. Check that there are no bubbles in the material itself and take note if there is any difference between the colors when looking at different pieces in the same set.
Q: Are there any tips for serving drinks in cocktail glasses?A: Ensure your guests look at the presentation before drinking by showing off the colors in each drink and layering ingredients correctly if applicable (e.g., topping off a margarita with lime foam). Lastly, never forget to add garnishes like citrus wedges or olives; this adds flavour and visual appeal!
Q: Is there anything I should avoid doing when using cocktail glasses?A: Yes! Never use scouring pads on any type of cocktail glass. These tend to scratch glasses easily.
We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links. The newsroom or editorial staff was not involved in the creation of this content.