Old fashioned bourbon glass

The old fashioned glass is a classic in global cocktail culture, traditionally used for serving bourbon and the famous Old Fashioned cocktail.

About this subject

The old fashioned glass, also known as a rocks glass or lowball, is a short, sturdy tumbler with a thick base and straight or slightly tapered sides. Its capacity ranges from 180 to 300 ml, ideal for drinks served with large ice cubes. Originating in the 18th century, it was initially used for fermented punches but became standard in the 19th century for whiskey and cocktails. The robust design helps keep the drink cool without warming it quickly.

The Old Fashioned cocktail, which names the glass, emerged in the early 1800s as a simple mixture of whiskey, sugar, water, and bitters. Jerry Thomas codified the recipe in his 1862 bartender's guide, and it became a symbol of masculine sophistication, especially in the American Midwest. After declining in the mid-20th century, the Old Fashioned saw a revival in the 2000s with the craft cocktail movement, now ranking among the most ordered drinks globally.

Bourbon, the primary spirit associated with this glass, is an American whiskey made from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels. Kentucky produces 95% of the world's bourbon, thanks to its climate and limestone-filtered water. Aging in toasted barrels imparts vanilla, caramel, and spice notes, which perfectly complement the sugar and bitters in an Old Fashioned.

Dramatic lighting, such as Rembrandt style, accentuates the amber reflections of bourbon and the clarity of ice, creating an intimate and inviting atmosphere. This photographic technique, with deep shadows and directed light, is often used by premium bars to emphasize the drink's purity and color, making the old fashioned glass not just a vessel but a central aesthetic element in the cocktail experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an old fashioned glass?

It is a short, sturdy tumbler with a thick base, used for serving whiskey and cocktails like the Old Fashioned. It typically holds 180-300 ml and is ideal for drinks with ice.

How is bourbon different from other whiskeys?

Bourbon is an American whiskey made from at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak barrels. Unlike Scotch, which uses malt, bourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel notes.

What is the classic Old Fashioned cocktail recipe?

Mix a sugar cube with a few dashes of Angostura bitters and a splash of water. Muddle, add ice and 60 ml of bourbon. Stir and garnish with an orange peel. Simple and sophisticated.