Old fashioned bourbon glass

The old fashioned glass, with its wide base and low sides, is the classic vessel for serving bourbon neat, on the rocks, or in the eponymous cocktail.

About this subject

The old fashioned glass, also known as a rocks glass or lowball glass, is one of the most iconic shapes in bartending. Its short, wide form with a thick bottom was designed to facilitate muddling ingredients (like sugar and bitters) and to hold ice cubes securely. Typically holding 6 to 10 ounces (180-300 ml), it is made from crystal or tempered glass. The name comes directly from the Old Fashioned cocktail, which emerged in the early 1800s and became a classic way to prepare whiskey with sugar, bitters, and citrus peel.

Historically, the old fashioned glass replaced the narrower, thinner-walled glasses of the 18th century. Its sturdiness mirrors American whiskey culture, where bourbon is often enjoyed neat or with a single large ice cube. The term "old fashioned" was first applied to both the drink and the glass in the 1880s, with bartender James E. Pepper often credited for popularizing the recipe at Louisville's Pendennis Club. During Prohibition in the United States, the glass gained favor for serving potent cocktails in a discreet yet classic vessel.

Today, the old fashioned glass remains a symbol of timeless sophistication. Bartenders prefer it for stirred cocktails like the Manhattan or Negroni, but the Old Fashioned itself is unmatched in popularity. The glass's thick walls help maintain the drink's temperature and slow ice dilution, preserving the whiskey's character. Beyond bourbon, it is used for scotch, craft beers, and even tropical drinks without crushed ice. Its design continues to influence modern glassware, often featuring slight variations in shape or weight, but its essential form has endured for over a century.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an old fashioned glass and a highball glass?

An old fashioned glass is short and wide with a capacity of 6-10 ounces, ideal for spirits served neat or with a single ice cube. A highball glass is tall and narrow, holding 8-12 ounces, designed for long drinks with ice and mixers like whiskey and soda.

Why is the old fashioned glass called that?

The name derives from the Old Fashioned cocktail, one of the earliest recorded cocktail recipes (1806). The glass was specifically designed for preparing and serving that drink, which requires muddling sugar and bitters at the bottom and accommodating a large ice cube.

What is the typical capacity of an old fashioned glass?

Most old fashioned glasses hold between 6 and 10 ounces (180-300 ml). The standard bar version is around 8-10 ounces, but smaller and larger sizes exist for different serving styles.