When it comes to serving your favorite spirits, the glassware you choose can make all the difference. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know which glass is best for your go-to drink. Two popular options are the lowball glass and the old-fashioned glass, but what sets them apart? Let’s take a closer look.
First up, we have the old-fashioned glass. As the name suggests, this glass was designed specifically for serving the classic cocktail of the same name. It typically holds around 8-10 ounces and features a thick, heavy base that makes it perfect for muddling ingredients. The old-fashioned glass also has a wide rim, which allows the drink to breathe and the aromas to waft up to your nose as you sip.
On the other hand, the lowball glass, also known as a rocks glass, is a shorter and wider option. It typically holds around 6-8 ounces and has a thicker base that keeps the drink colder for longer. The lowball glass is often used for serving drinks “on the rocks,” which means over ice. It’s also a popular choice for simpler cocktails, like the popular whiskey and coke. So, which glass is the right choice for you? That depends on your personal preference and the specific drink you’re serving. But understanding the differences between them can certainly help you make an informed decision.
Types of Cocktail Glasses
Choosing the right glassware for your cocktail can be as important as choosing the right ingredients. Different glass shapes can enhance or detract from the flavor and overall drinking experience of a cocktail. Below are some types of cocktail glasses that you might encounter:
- Old Fashioned Glass: Also known as a lowball or rocks glass, an old fashioned glass typically holds 6-10 ounces and is used for serving drinks that are served over ice with little or no mixer. They are perfect for cocktails that are sipped slowly, such as a classic Old Fashioned.
- Highball Glass: A tall, slim glass that is typically used for cocktails with a high proportion of mixer to spirits. The highball glass is perfect for drinks like a Gin and Tonic or a Rum and Coke.
- Martini Glass: A classic stemmed glass that is used for serving chilled cocktails, such as a Martini or a Manhattan. The wide, shallow bowl of the glass helps to keep the cocktail cold while also allowing you to appreciate its aroma and color.
- Coupe Glass: A wide, shallow glass that is perfect for serving cocktails that are meant to be sipped slowly, such as a Champagne Cocktail or a Sidecar. The stemless design of the glass makes it easier to hold and less likely to tip over.
- Margarita Glass: A festive, often brightly colored glass that is used for serving frozen or on-the-rocks margaritas. The wide rim of the glass is perfect for salt or sugar, while the long stem helps to keep the drink cold.
Old Fashioned Glass vs. Lowball Glass
The terms “Old Fashioned Glass” and “Lowball Glass” are often used interchangeably in the cocktail world, but there are some subtle differences between the two. The Old Fashioned Glass typically has a thicker, heavier base and is often used for serving drinks “on the rocks,” meaning with ice. The Lowball Glass, on the other hand, is typically thinner and lighter and is often used for serving drinks “neat,” meaning without ice. However, both glasses are versatile and can be used interchangeably depending on personal preference.
Elements That Affect the Taste of a Drink
Drinks are not just limited to their ingredients. The type of glassware used to serve a drink also affects its taste. Here, we will discuss how the shape and size of a glass, along with its material, enhances or diminishes the flavor of a drink.
Shape and Size of a Glass
- The shape and size of a glass can either enhance or diminish the aroma of a drink. The curvature of the glass rim determines how much aroma is trapped inside the glass, which is an important element in the overall taste of the drink.
- The size of the glass also affects the taste. If a glass is too small, it can concentrate the alcohol, making it more potent. Similarly, a glass that is too large can dilute the drink, making it taste watered down.
- For example, a whiskey glass has a wide rim that allows the aroma to escape, enhancing the overall drinking experience. In contrast, a martini glass has a narrow rim that traps the aroma inside the glass, making it more pronounced.
Glass Material
The material of a glass used to serve drinks is also an important factor to consider.:
- Crystal glassware is preferred for drinks like wine and whiskey as it enhances the overall experience and taste. It is also more durable and less prone to scratches compared to other materials.
- Glassware made of plastic or metal can absorb impurities and residual flavors from previous drinks, affecting the taste of the current drink being served.
Conclusion
As you can see, the right type of glassware can make a significant difference when it comes to the taste of a drink. The shape and size of a glass can enhance or diminish the aroma and flavor of a drink, while the material of the glassware can affect the purity of the drink. Always choose the right glassware for the drink that you want to serve to enhance your overall drinking experience.
| Glass Type | Shape | Size | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whiskey Glass | Wide Rim | Small to Medium | Crystal |
| Martini Glass | Narrow Rim | Medium to Large | Crystal |
| Lowball Glass | Straight Sides | Small to Medium | Crystal or Glass |
| Old Fashioned Glass | Straight Sides | Small to Medium | Crystal or Glass |
The table above shows the recommended glassware for four popular drinks, along with their shape, size, and material.
Drinkware Material Options
Choosing the right material for your drinkware depends on your personal preferences and the occasion. Here are some common options:
- Glass – Classic and versatile, glass drinkware can be used for any type of beverage and is easy to clean. It’s also a more eco-friendly option than plastic.
- Crystal – For those special occasions, crystal drinkware adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. It’s a bit more fragile than glass and requires more delicate care.
- Stainless Steel – Ideal for outdoor activities or for when you want to keep your drink cold for longer, stainless steel drinkware is durable and often come with insulated features.
Drinkware Material Durability
The durability of your drinkware is often related to its material. As mentioned, glass drinkware is typically more fragile and can break or crack if dropped. Crystal is even more delicate and should be handled with care. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is highly durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
In addition, some drinkware materials may be more suitable for certain beverages. For example, stainless steel is great for keeping drinks cold, but not for serving hot beverages as it can also keep them too hot to handle. Glass is ideal for most types of beverages, but not for acidic drinks like citrus juices as they can cause glass to corrode over time.
Drinkware Material Maintenance
Proper maintenance of your drinkware can help prolong its lifespan. Generally, glass and crystal drinkware should be hand washed to avoid chipping or breakage. Stainless steel drinkware can be washed in the dishwasher, although hand washing is always a safe option.
When storing your drinkware, make sure to avoid stacking them on top of each other as the weight can cause them to crack or break. Instead, use dividers or separate cupboards for each piece.
Drinkware Material Comparison Table
| Material | Durability | Maintenance | Suitable for Beverages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glass | Fragile, prone to breakage | Hand wash recommended | Most types of beverages |
| Crystal | Delicate, requires careful handling | Hand wash only | Special occasions, certain types of beverages |
| Stainless Steel | Durable, can withstand wear and tear | Dishwasher safe, but hand washing recommended | Cold beverages, not suitable for hot beverages or acidic drinks |
By considering the durability, maintenance, and suitability for beverages, you can choose the perfect drinkware material to fit your needs.
Understanding Glass Shapes and Sizes
Glassware comes in different shapes and sizes, each designed for a specific beverage. The choice of glass influences how much of the drink’s aroma and flavor is released and perceived, affecting the drinking experience.
- The Old Fashioned glass, also known as rocks glass, is short, wide, and heavy-bottomed. Its size ranges from 6 to 12 ounces, and it’s designed for drinks served over ice, like whiskey neat or on the rocks, and cocktails like a Negroni or a Manhattan.
- The Lowball glass, also known as a tumbler or a double old-fashioned glass, is larger than an Old Fashioned glass, usually 14 to 16 ounces. It’s similar in shape to its smaller counterpart but has a taller profile. The Lowball’s higher capacity makes it ideal for drinks with mixers and ice, like a Scotch and Soda or a Whiskey Sour.
While there are different glass shapes and sizes available, selecting the right glassware can impact the drink’s aroma, flavor, and feel on the palate. Below is a table highlighting the common types of glassware and their uses:
| Glass Type | Size | Beverage |
|---|---|---|
| Champagne Flute | 6-10 oz | Champagne, Sparkling Wine |
| Martini Glass | 4-10 oz | Martini, Cocktail |
| Highball Glass | 8-12 oz | Soda, Juice, Mixed drinks with ice |
| Snifter Glass | 6-12 oz | Brandy, Cognac, Aged Spirits |
| Shot Glass | 1.5-2 oz | Spirits, Liqueurs |
Knowing the right glassware to use for each beverage can elevate the drinking experience. Whether it’s a lowball or an old-fashioned glass, both are classic and timeless choices for enjoying your favorite spirits.
Glass Etching and Design Ideas
Etching is the process of creating designs or patterns on the surface of a glass by using an abrasive material. Old fashioned glasses are perfect for this process because of their larger surface area compared to lowball glasses. Here are some design ideas that you can try:
- Create a monogram by etching your initials onto the glass
- Add a design or pattern such as polka dots, stripes or chevron
- Erase the design of the glass by etching a frosted finish
Another way to decorate glasses is through decal transfer. This process involves printing a design onto a special paper and transferring it onto the glass surface. Lowball glasses with their smaller size are perfect for this method. Here are some design ideas:
- Print a fun quote or saying on the glass surface
- Add colorful images such as a martini glass or a corkscrew to the glass
- Personalize the glass with a picture of the owner
You can also decorate glasses using paint markers. These markers allow detailed designs and are dishwasher safe once baked. Here are some design ideas for decorating glasses with paint markers:
- Create a design with a pop of color such as a neon pink flower or a bright yellow sun
- Add a personal touch by drawing a cartoon character or a pet on the glass
- Use the markers to create a design that matches the theme of your party or event
Finally, you can create a unique and personalized design on your glasses by combining two or more of the decorating techniques mentioned above. Here is an example:
| Techniques Used | Design Idea |
|---|---|
| Etching | Frosted glass finish |
| Decal Transfer | Add picture of a favorite cocktail |
| Paint Markers | Write a cute saying on the glass, such as “Shaken, not stirred” |
With these glass etching and design ideas, you can easily create a unique and personalized set of glasses for your home or as a gift for someone special.
Popular Drink Recipes for Old Fashioned Glasses
Old Fashioned glasses are a staple in any home bar. They are perfect for serving up classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned itself, as well as other timeless drinks like the Manhattan and the Sazerac. Below are six popular drink recipes that are best served in an Old Fashioned glass.
- Old Fashioned – Made with bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a splash of water, this drink is a true classic. It’s simple to make and easy to customize based on your preferred whiskey and garnish.
- Manhattan – This classic cocktail is made with whiskey (usually rye), sweet vermouth, and bitters. It’s a great option if you want something a little more complex than an Old Fashioned.
- Sazerac – Originally made with cognac, this New Orleans favorite is now typically made with rye whiskey, absinthe, sugar, and bitters. It’s a little more involved to make than some other drinks on this list, but it’s definitely worth the effort.
- Negroni – This cocktail is made with gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. It’s bitter and sweet at the same time, making it a great option for those who want to explore different flavor profiles.
- Whiskey Sour – This cocktail is made with whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar. It’s a sweet and sour drink that’s perfect for sipping on a hot day.
- French 75 – Made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and Champagne, this classic cocktail has a citrusy, bubbly profile that’s perfect for celebrations and special occasions.
If you’re looking for a more visual representation of these recipes, check out the table below:
| Cocktail | Ingredients | Garnish |
|---|---|---|
| Old Fashioned | Bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar cube, bitters, water, orange peel | Orange peel and cherry |
| Manhattan | Rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, bitters | Cherry |
| Sazerac | Rye whiskey, absinthe, sugar cube, bitters, lemon peel | Lemon peel |
| Negroni | Gin, Campari, sweet vermouth | Orange peel |
| Whiskey Sour | Whiskey, lemon juice, sugar | Cherry and/or lemon wedge |
| French 75 | Gin, lemon juice, sugar, Champagne | Lemon peel |
As you can see, there are many classic cocktails that are best served in an Old Fashioned glass. Whether you’re a fan of bitter or sweet drinks, there is an Old Fashioned glass recipe out there that’s perfect for your taste preference.
Whiskey and Bourbon Glass Recommendations
Choosing the right glass for your whiskey or bourbon can be crucial in fully experiencing and appreciating the nuanced flavors and aromas of the spirit. When it comes to whiskey and bourbon glasses, the two most commonly recommended types are old fashioned glasses and lowball glasses.
Old fashioned glasses are short and stout, with a wide rim that allows for easy sipping and swirling of the drink. They are typically wider at the top and taper downwards, allowing for the aroma to be concentrated and the flavors to be more pronounced. The classic old fashioned glass usually holds about 6 to 8 ounces of liquid.
On the other hand, lowball glasses (also known as rock glasses) are slightly smaller and wider than old fashioned glasses. They are also short and stout, but have a more cylindrical shape and hold about 4 to 6 ounces of liquid. The wide rim allows for ample space for ice and garnishes, making it a good choice for those who prefer their whiskey or bourbon on the rocks or with mixers.
- If you’re looking for a classic whiskey drinking experience that showcases the full range of flavors and aromas, an old fashioned glass is the way to go.
- Lowball glasses are great for those who prefer their whiskey or bourbon with mixers or on the rocks.
- Ultimately, the choice between old fashioned and lowball glasses comes down to personal preference and how you enjoy your drink.
For those who want to take their whiskey or bourbon drinking to the next level, there are also specialized glasses that are designed to enhance the tasting experience. The Glencairn glass, for example, is a tulip-shaped glass with a narrow opening that concentrates the aroma and allows for easy swirling. The NEAT glass is another option, featuring a unique shape that separates the harsh alcohol vapors from the more subtle aromas, resulting in a more refined tasting experience.
| Glass Type | Capacity | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Old Fashioned Glass | 6-8 oz | Neat, with a few drops of water, or with small ice cubes |
| Lowball/Rock Glass | 4-6 oz | On the rocks, with mixers, or with large ice cubes |
| Glencairn Glass | 6-10 oz | Neat or with a few drops of water |
| NEAT Glass | 4-6 oz | Neat or with a few drops of water |
No matter which glass you choose, always remember to savor and enjoy the complex flavors and aromas that a good whiskey or bourbon has to offer.
What’s the Difference Between Old Fashioned and Lowball Glasses?
FAQ 1: What is an old fashioned glass?
An old fashioned glass, also known as a rocks glass or tumbler, is a short and sturdy glass that typically holds 6-10 ounces of liquid. It’s commonly used for serving whiskey, bourbon, or other spirits.
FAQ 2: What is a lowball glass?
A lowball glass, also called a double old fashioned glass, is similar to an old fashioned glass but has a larger capacity of 10-12 ounces. It’s designed for serving drinks on the rocks or mixed drinks with a small amount of mixer.
FAQ 3: Can I use either glass for any drink?
While both glasses are versatile, their sizes make them better suited for specific types of drinks. An old fashioned glass is ideal for serving neat or on-the-rocks beverages, whereas a lowball glass is better for mixed drinks with a higher ratio of mixer to spirit.
FAQ 4: What are the differences in appearance?
Old fashioned glasses are typically shorter and wider with a thicker base, while lowball glasses are taller and narrower with a thinner base. Both glasses may have a variety of decorative designs and may be made from different materials such as crystal or glass.
FAQ 5: Are there any other names for these glasses?
Yes, there are various regional and industry names for these glasses. Some may refer to a lowball glass as a rocks glass or short tumbler, while others may call an old fashioned glass a low tumbler or DOF (double old fashioned) glass.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading about the differences between old fashioned and lowball glasses! We hope this information was helpful in selecting the right glass for your favorite drink. Be sure to check out our selection of glassware and barware for all your entertaining needs. Come back and visit us soon!