Without question, whiskey is a spirit that has been made to be savoured, appreciated and enjoyed. Whether indulging in a Japanese, Irish, rye, bourbon or single malt Scotch whiskey, using the appropriate glassware can drastically improve the taste of your tipple, as each has been designed specifically with certain drinking (or tasting) styles and purposes in mind.
If you've been trawling the web and are unsure whether to go for a highball, rocks glass, Glencairn or old fashioned tumbler, our article is here to help you out, as we discuss shape, design, and material. Then, read on to discover our ranking of the top 10 best whiskey glasses available on Amazon, eBay and John Lewis. We've included stylish cut crystal, affordable decanter and glass sets, the latest NEAT technology, and luxury gift options, so you can trust you'll find the right glass to do justice to your favourite dram!
Quick List - Top Whiskey Glasses
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The type of whiskey glass you buy should reflect the way you like to drink. In this buying guide we examine and compare different types of glasses to help you find the right one for your favourite tipple.
When buying a whiskey glass, you'll first need to consider its purpose. Some glasses are designed for sampling, whereas others are more suited to cocktails or mixed drinks. Make sure to pick the right one to enhance your drinking experience!
Much beloved by whiskey connoisseurs, the Glencairn was created by a group of Scottish master blenders as a variation of the Copita (a type of glass traditionally used to sample sherry), that's similarly shaped, but better suited to enhancing the flavours of whiskey.
Glencairn glasses have a thick base that's designed to prevent the heat from your hand warming the liquid while providing greater stability. The lack of a long stem makes this glass more robust and more satisfying to swirl – a practice used to awaken the aromas of whiskey. Once released, the tapered bowl channels the aromas towards the rim for optimal enjoyment.
Sometimes referred to as a nosing glass, the tulip glass is the favoured cup of many master blenders and distillers, as the long stem provides distance between the drinker’s nose and hand for a more accurate nosing of the drink.
The bowl of the glass is similar in shape and function to the Glencairn, allowing it to be warmed and swirled in much the same fashion.
Sometimes referred to as a rocks glass or lowball, the simple whiskey tumbler is the perfect way to enjoy whiskey on ice. Although the wide rim and level base makes the tumbler ill-suited to whiskey sampling, it's a versatile glass, with a shape that mixologists, as well as purists, will appreciate.
How so? Well, the sturdiness of the glass is ideal for muddling ingredients, which is why it’s become the go-to for serving whiskey-based cocktails such as the Old Fashioned and the Sazerac.
The highball is your pick if you favour a longer drink, such as scotch and soda. It’s similar in shape to the tumbler, keeping a relatively consistent diameter from base to rim, whilst also allowing adequate space for a mixer and plenty of ice.
The highball is particularly popular amongst Japanese whisky drinkers, so keep this one in mind if you’re partial to a sip of Suntory.
As the story goes, the NEAT (Naturally Engineered Aroma Technology) glass was the result of creator George Manska’s attempts at imitating the work of the famous glass sculptor Dale Chihuly. New to glass blowing, Manska accidentally invented this oddly shaped glass.
The NEAT glass follows the same basic bulb shape as the Glencairn, but with a flared rim. As it turns out, this shape does a pretty good job at filtering out harsh ethanol aromas, resulting in a smoother-tasting drink.
When comparing whisky receptacles online, you’ll likely see some advertised as ‘crystal’. Whether you choose glass or crystal will come down to personal preference. But what's the difference?
Aesthetically, crystal is much sparklier than other types of glass, making for a beautiful presentation and an ideal option for a gift or special occasion. It can also be spun thinly whilst maintaining strength, meaning that crystal glasses are generally lighter and more intricate in design.
However, due to their higher mineral content, these glasses are much more porous – so even if they are technically dishwasher-safe, you are strongly advised to wash them by hand to prolong their longevity as best you can.
It's also worth noting that one of the materials that make up crystal's hardy composition is lead. Some people are concerned lead may affect the taste or safety of their drink, but if you're not storing whiskey in crystal for extended periods of time there is nothing to worry about. Should you wish to avoid it, though, look out for lead-free crystal glasses, which also have the added bonus of being recyclable.
On the whole, soda-lime glass (the everyday glass you'll find most drinkware to be made from, comprising of sand, soda ash and lime) is a thicker and sturdier choice of material than crystal. It’s non-porous, and many varieties are dishwasher-safe – which will not only give your glasses a more thorough clean and a better finish but will also save you time washing up.
While they may not be as flashy, there are plenty of stylish glass designs available for a fraction of the cost of crystal glassware, plus they're a sure-to-please option for those who prefer a more pared-back and contemporary look.
Save for the odd gift tumbler, most whiskey glasses are available as sets, so be sure to check the number of glasses provided to make sure you end up with the right amount.
If you are buying just for yourself or a pair, a set of two will likely be sufficient. However, if you like to entertain, then buying a set of at least four will allow you to enjoy drinks with friends without having to scavenge in the cupboards for any old glass.
Some sets include extra items such as a decanter, stand or display box. These make wonderful gifts and look elegant when put on display, which is worth considering if you're out to impress.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Glencairn Official Whisky Glass | ![]() | The Quintessential Whiskey Tasting Glass | |
2 | LSA International Whisky Decanter & Glasses Gift Set | ![]() | The Complete Set for Whiskey Tasters | |
3 | Glencairn Copita Nosing Glass with Tasting Cap | ![]() | Best Glass for Mature Whiskeys | |
4 | NEAT Ultimate Spirits Glass | ![]() | An Innovative Glass to Accentuate Aromas | |
5 | Croft Collection Recycled Glass Highball | ![]() | A Shabby-Chic Highball Made from Recycled Glass | |
6 | Glencairn Cut Crystal Whiskey Glasses | ![]() | A Show-Stopping Cut Crystal Glencairn | |
7 | Stölzle Lausitz The Nosing Glass | ![]() | A Strong and Sturdy Glass for Enjoying Whiskey | |
8 | Bormioli Rocco Selecta Whiskey Set | ![]() | A Stylish Yet Affordable Glass and Decanter Set | |
9 | Waterford Giftology Lismore Tumbler | ![]() | A Luxury Gift Set of Crystal Tumblers | |
10 | Riedel Bar Highball Glass | ![]() | Best Highball Glass for Long Mixed Drinks |
The Glencairn is the quintessential whiskey tasting glass, favoured by master blenders across the world. Whether you’re someone who’s serious about whiskey or you're just starting out, you can’t go wrong with a Glencairn.
The wide bowl at the base allows you to study the whiskey’s colour, and the tapered rim will help to capture and funnel all the delicious aromas from your favourite bottle. The design is possibly the easiest glass to hold, swirl and drink from, too, with an ergonomic shape that can be comfortably cradled in one hand. Perfect!
This set from LSA has everything you need for whiskey sampling. First, pour your whiskey of choice from the decanter into the nosing glasses to appreciate the unique aromas. Once you’ve sampled the neat spirit, go ahead and add a splash of water from the jug to awaken the full palate of flavour.
Finally pour a measure into one of the tumblers, perhaps with a cube of ice, sit back, and enjoy! We like that this set has a sleek minimal design that gives it a modern edge, and the included high-quality walnut tray to keep everything organised and presentable. It's worth every penny!
The Glencairn Copita Nosing Glass is our top pick for those who enjoy mature whiskies. The tulip-shaped glass is particularly suited to single malts and aged blends. The wide base provides adequate space for swirling, with a small opening to channel vapours directly to the nose.
After pouring your chosen whiskey, replace the cap and leave to stand for a few minutes, which helps the aromas fully develop and release into the glass.
If you’re serious about whiskey and haven’t yet tried the NEAT glass, we recommend giving it a go! Unpleasant alcohol burn can overwhelm the senses, detracting from the flavour notes of the drink. The pinched neck of the glass separates out harsh ethanol aromas while the flared rim works to channel them away from the nose.
A relative newcomer to the scene, NEAT glasses have fast become the official glass of numerous renowned spirit competitions. While they may not be to everyone’s taste, they'll certainly be a conversation starter come dessert time!
Decorative without being too showy, this modest highball glass is a top choice for those who would prefer something a little less elaborate. These eco-friendly glasses from Croft Collection are made from recycled glass with a soft aqua tint, which prevents them from looking too basic or cheap.
Dishwasher-safe and suitable for everyday use, we recommend using this set to show off your whiskey cocktails. With a vintage look and a light and summery appeal, this glass is simply ideal for a refreshing John Collins.
Boasting impeccable quality, this decorative pair take the beloved Glencairn glass and amp it up with a bit of flair. They're made from 24% lead crystal with a high level of polish for a smooth, gleaming finish.
A real showstopper whether you plan on buying for yourself of as a gift, these stunning glasses come in a black leatherette travel case with a rose gold clasp, that’s both practical and stylish.
Somewhat of a compromise between the Glencairn and the Copita, Stölzle Lausitz’s Nosing Glasses combine some of the best elements of both. Designed with a thicker, shorter stem and wider opening, they are more convenient to fill and hold.
Built to last, these are some seriously strong and sturdy glasses. Plus, they're shatter-resistant and dishwasher-safe with a low centre of gravity, to avoid the possibility of your drink tipping and spilling or the glass breaking.
If you’re looking for stylish glassware that won’t break the bank, we suggest the Selecta Whiskey Set from Bormioli Rocco. This pound-saving whiskey glass and decanter set has a level of class and refinement that far surpasses the affordable price tag.
The decanter holds a generous 1 litre of whiskey, and the glassware comprises of 6 handsome cut-glass tumblers. Bring this one out at your next dinner party to enjoy an after-dinner dram with friends!
This luxury set of crystal tumblers from Waterford would make the perfect gift for any whiskey lover. The duo of glasses have a timeless diamond cut design that will look beautiful in any home, and come bundled together in a gorgeous green and gold presentation box.
Although very much at the higher end price-wise, these glasses will surely add a bit of class and elegance to a scotch on the rocks. Save only for special occasions or when you're looking to impress!
This pair of highball glasses from Riedel are designed to provide the optimal height and volume for long cocktails. With a 310 ml capacity, you’ll be able to fit plenty of mixer and ice in whatever mouth-watering whiskey-based drink you fancy.
Whilst a little expensive for a set of 2, the glass is high-quality and made to mimic crystal, offering excellent clarity and insulation for keeping drinks cool. They're also dishwasher-safe, but if you live in a hard water area you'll need to stay on top of polishing them with a microfibre cloth to prevent smudging or marks.
Fear not whiskey lovers, we've got a trio of buying guides to help you discover which bottle of the good stuff you'd most like to christen your new glassware with. Whichever region's unique whiskey style takes your fancy, we guarantee you'll learn a thing or two!
You wouldn't want to drink soup with a fork, so why, when it comes to spirits, do we so often choose an ill-suited cup? Whether you like your whiskey neat or with lashings of ginger ale and ice, finding the right glass is an absolute must! We hope this article has helped you find your perfect match online.
Author: Wren Mann
No. 1: Glencairn |Official Whisky Glass
No. 2: LSA International |Whisky Decanter & Glasses Gift Set
No. 3: Glencairn |Copita Nosing Glass with Tasting Cap
No. 4: NEAT|Ultimate Spirits Glass
No. 5: Croft Collection |Recycled Glass Highball
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