Mixing Glass: Why You Really Need It

For cocktail enthusiasts and professional bartenders, choosing the right tools often determines the quality of the drinks. Among various bar tools, the mixing glass might seem unremarkable, yet it plays an essential role.

You may wonder: why do I need a mixing glass? If I already have a cocktail shaker, do I still need one? In fact, both are crucial in the cocktail-making process, each serving distinct purposes. In this article, we’ll explore the features and benefits of the mixing glass, showing you why it’s worth adding to your collection.

Jump to:

• What is a Mixing Glass? ↓
• The Functions of a Mixing Glass ↓
• Our Recommendations ↓

What is a Mixing Glass?

A mixing glass is a specialized container used for stirring cocktails, typically paired with a bar spoon, Hawthorne strainer, or julep strainer. Common capacities include 18 oz (530 ml), 20 oz (590 ml), and 24 oz (700 ml).

Designed to assist bartenders in seamlessly blending spirits and ice through stirring, it helps achieve the ideal balance of flavor and temperature. Unlike a shaker, which requires vigorous shaking, the mixing glass is used for drinks that benefit from a clear appearance and a more refined texture.

The Functions of a Mixing Glass

For classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Old Fashioned, which require stirring rather than shaking, a mixing glass is an essential tool. Shaking these cocktails in a shaker often leads to over-dilution as the ice melts too quickly. Additionally, the vigorous movement in a shaker creates foam and muddles the drink’s clarity, compromising both taste and presentation.

In contrast, stirring is a gentler technique that ensures proper cooling and dilution while preserving the rich flavors and crystal-clear appearance of the drink. To effectively prepare cocktails that rely on stirring, a mixing glass typically offers the following features and advantages:

1. Wide Opening Design
The wide opening design provides ample space, allowing for easy and flexible stirring with a bar spoon, giving you better control compared to other containers.

2. Transparent Glass or Crystal Material
Its see-through design allows you to monitor the mixing process with precision, ensuring optimal blending while adding a visual appeal during cocktail preparation.

3. Weighted Base for Stability
The sturdy, weighted base keeps the glass securely in place on the countertop or bar, preventing it from slipping or tipping during stirring and enhancing durability.

4. Thick Glass Walls for Insulation
The thick construction acts as a barrier, preventing the warmth of your hands or external heat from affecting the drink, ensuring the ice melts slowly and the cocktail remains perfectly balanced.

5. Pour Spout Design
A built-in spout guides the liquid smoothly as you pour, minimizing spills and drips for a clean and professional finish.

These attributes make the mixing glass a must-have for bartenders aiming to achieve the perfect cocktail. While you could use a shaker tin or other containers as alternatives, if you value efficiency, ease of use, and the best flavor outcome, a mixing glass is an irreplaceable professional choice that elevates your bartending experience.

Our Recommendations

Whether you’re a professional bartender or a home enthusiast, a high-quality mixing glass is always your most reliable assistant. The one we recommend here has been carefully selected and repeatedly tested by seasoned experts. With its outstanding performance and elegant design, it offers the perfect stirring experience to meet the demands of even the most discerning bartenders. Whether you’re mixing a Negroni or a Dry Martini, this mixing glass will help you achieve precise control over the blending process. It is undoubtedly an essential tool for your barware collection.

Key Features:

• Large 24 oz capacity allows you to mix multiple drinks at once, making it ideal for busy commercial bars or lively home parties. The ample space also makes it easier to stir effectively.
• Made from premium crystal for durability, weighing around 1.43 lbs (650 g), it stays firmly in place on flat surfaces, reducing the risk of tipping or breaking. The excellent transparency allows you to clearly observe the mixing process.
• The elegant grid engraving on the exterior adds a beautiful shine, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and professional look. Additionally, it provides a better grip, preventing slipping while stirring.

Conclusion

Owning a mixing glass allows you to easily and efficiently handle cocktails that require stirring. It's not only a tool that enhances the quality of your cocktails, but also one that brings artistry and fun to the bartending process. We hope this guide has given you a comprehensive understanding of its benefits. If you have any experiences or insights to share, or if you have questions you'd like to explore further, feel free to leave a comment below. We look forward to hearing from you. Cheers!