THE COOL CLUB
In Part 2 of this 4 part blog series: A Beginners Guide to Becoming a Mixologist, we will be learning which drinks belong in which glass.
Sounds simple, but a cocktail is a work of art, and the glass it is served in is very much part of this. Not only this, but the size and shape of the glass a cocktail is put into can also affect the way it tastes and sits.
The 8 glasses detailed below are essential to your collection, as well as knowing which glass to use for which drink, but don’t worry…it is usually stated in the recipe. Not only will you look professional but the glass will complement the cocktails in the best possible way. So when your guests do order a shaken martini, you can certainly serve it in a Martini glass!
Top tips on using and handling glassware:
Always handle glasses by the base or the stem to avoid leaving finger marks.
Check the glass for chips and marks such as lipstick before serving a drink.
Never put your fingers inside the glass.
Try and keep glassware chilled prior to use for the best results.
A Martini Glass: Also known as a cocktail glass. Most drinks served in this are shaken in a cocktail shaker over ice before being strained into the glass, therefore, it’s important to chill the glass prior to use to ensure the drink stays chilled. A James Bond favourite, the most popular drinks served in this are Martinis and Cosmopolitans.
A Shot Glass: Available in a range of sizes. Commonly known for measuring a spirit that is then drank in one however when it comes to cocktails shot glasses can be used to measure the amount of alcohol going into a cocktail. A 2 in one type of glass!
A Margarita Glass:
Slightly larger and more curved than a Martini glass. Use a Margarita glass for your slushy style drinks. Classically used for a tasty Margarita, but many bars now use them for frozen Strawberry Daiquiri’s, Woo Woos and bespoke mixtures. Named after the famous classic cocktail when the rim is usually covered in salt!
A Hurricane Glass:
Other names used for this style of glass is “Poco Grande” or “Pina Colada” mainly because it’s most famous use is to serve a slushy creamy Pina Colada! It’s ideal for lots of ingredients and lots of ice and is most popular for exotic/tropical drinks!
A Boston Glass: A tall, heavy conical glass with a thick rim. This glass has several uses. It is commonly used to serve a cold refreshing beer however it is great for serving long drinks such as Mojitos, or using as a tool to mix drinks in before pouring into a more elegant cocktail glass. You can also use this glass as a shaker by using it with a Boston tin (pictured).
A Snifter Glass: This glass is perfect for serving the more luxurious style of drinks, usually a single ingredient that is enjoyed slowly such as a Cognac or Whiskey. Try popping a single super cube into this style glass to complement these drinks. It’s slow melting qualities means the drink will be kept chilled, without being diluted.
On The Rocks Glass: This style of glassware is hard and tough and perfect for short drinks such as a Vodka and Soda, Cuba Libre, Old Fashioned or Gin & Tonic. Drinks in this glass are usually mixed in the glass with ice, rather than in a shaker. It is classy and traditional and a favourite with seasoned cocktail drinkers who know what they like.
So there we have 8 pieces of glassware for you to try when making your cocktails. It is important to remember that the glass you use not only helps presentation, but taste.
But remember, it’s not just about the tools you use to make the drink and the glass it’s served in, there’s more to know, so read our next blog which reveals details about the perfect garnish to go with a cocktail!
If you missed Part 1 of the Beginners Guide to Becoming a Mixologist, then don’t worry click the link to find out more, where The Ice Co explain the essential tools required in your cocktail making kit!!
