The best whisky glasses to drink your scotch in
You’ve picked your whisky (Ballantine’s, obvs), now you need a glass that really lets the Scotch shine.
Of course, there are no hard and fast rules. But sometimes a short, wide tumbler – known as a rocks glass – is great for whisky and a big block of ice. And a tall, long glass – known as a highball – can be perfect for all the layered flavours of a cocktail.
So, let’s get to grips with all the glassware.
1. Old fashioned glass: the old faithful
It’s classic, it’s iconic, and it’s also known as a rocks glass or whisky tumbler. This is the go-to glass for a reason: the heavy base is satisfying to hold, and it’s perfectly shaped to handle ice or a splash of water. It’s totally versatile too: use it for a leisurely sip of your favourite neat Scotch or to whip up a killer Old Fashioned cocktail.
2. Glencairn glass: unique and functional
Show this glass to someone who doesn’t drink whisky, and you might get a confused look. Shaped like a teardrop, the Glencairn is specially designed to elevate your Scotch-drinking experience. The wide, round base lets you swirl and savour all the complex aromas and flavours. We reckon this is the perfect glass to truly appreciate the honeyed sweetness of the Ballantine’s Glenburgie 15 Year Old.
3. Tulip glass: aroma amplified
Think of this as the Glencairn’s slightly bigger, equally sophisticated relative. Based on the Spanish copita design, this glass is perfect for fully appreciating a taste of Ballantine’s. The bowl releases those rich aromas, while the tapered rim directs them straight to your nose. We suggest a pour of Ballantine’s 30 Year Old Scotch so you can take in the deep, fruity aromas and vanilla oakiness.
4. Coupe glass: serving style
Originally designed for champagne back in the 1660s, the stemmed coupe glass is now your best friend for cocktails served ‘up’ (meaning without ice). Luckily, we have plenty of great whisky cocktails that fit the bill. Try it with the Paper Plane, our bittersweet, new era cocktail or the Atholl Brose, the traditional and oh-so-creamy Scottish classic.
5. Highball glass: long and tall
Like the Old Fashioned glass, the highball gets its name from a style of drink. As the name suggests, this glass is built for maximum capacity. Whether you’re pouring Scotch with a simple top-up of cola or mixing up a dozen inventive ingredients, with a highball, you’ve got room for the lot plus a satisfying, teeth-chattering amount of ice.
6. Mason jar: get a handle on it
Who says whisky has to be served in a standard vessel? You can get creative with your glassware. Mason-style glasses with handles are ideal for slowly sipping your drink. If you want something a bit more DIY, you can even use an empty jam jar. Fill it with something indulgent, like a Whisky Milkshake.
So… to answer the question ‘what type of glass is best for whisky?’ Well, that’s really up to you and your preference6
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