A home needs only three or four kinds of glass. A tall highball for long, iced drinks; a short tumbler for juice and small drinks; a water glass for the table; and, if you host often, a stemmed glass for special drinks. Start with a set of each in one style, and add more as you entertain.
What is a highball glass for? A highball is tall and straight, usually between 30 and 45 cl. It is made for long drinks with ice: iced tea, lemonade, soda, juice. Because it is narrow, the drink stays cold and fizzy longer.
What is a tumbler for? A tumbler, also called a rocks glass, is short and wide with a heavy base. It suits small drinks, fresh juice in the morning, or a drink over one large ice cube. It feels solid in the hand, which makes it a good everyday glass.
Do I need special water glasses? A water glass is the one glass that stays on the table for the whole meal. Choose a shape between 30 and 40 cl that is easy to hold and easy to wash. Clear glass shows the water; coloured glass adds warmth to the table.
What are stemmed and balloon glasses for? A stem keeps the warmth of your hand away from a chilled drink. Wine glasses with a large bowl suit red wine; smaller bowls suit white wine. A copa, or balloon glass, holds plenty of ice and garnish, so it is popular for mocktails and tonic drinks.
How many glasses does a home need? For everyday life, four to six of each everyday glass. If you host, plan two glasses per guest: one water glass, and one for the drink being served. A carafe or jug of water on the table saves trips to the kitchen.
Three quick answers
What is the difference between a highball and a tumbler? A highball is tall for long, iced drinks; a tumbler is short and wide for small drinks and juice.
What size is a water glass? Usually 30 to 40 cl.
What glass is best for mocktails? A copa or balloon glass, because it holds plenty of ice and garnish.
