Perfect Pairings: Glassware & Cocktails with Charles Joly
Our editors recently sat down with world champion bartender and award-winning mixologist Charles Joly to get his perspective on pairing cocktails with glassware. Read on for his expert tips and check out his Crafthouse by Fortessa Classic Collection here.
Collins
Tall and cylindrical, the Collins glass is great for highball-style drinks that consist of a spirit, a single mixer and ice. (Think vodka and soda or gin and tonic.) If you’re into libations like mojitos and Palomas, this go-to glass can be used for any cocktail that will be "stretched out" with the addition of soda water, sparkling wine or similar. Super versatile, it can be used beyond the bar for kombucha, iced tea, juice and more.
COUPE
The home bartender’s choice, the coupe glass is best for cocktails served “straight up,” or without ice. Chill the glass before pouring in your beautifully crafted cocktail to help keep the temperature of the drink down. The classic coupe fits the bill for standbys like martinis and Manhattans, but also lends itself to other creations like daquiris and sidecars. This glass can also act as an alternative to margarita glasses.
DOUBLE
OLD-FASHIONED
If your prefer your old fashioned, margarita or Manhattan over ice (as Joly does), this is an ideal vessel. The double old fashioned glass serves as an all-purpose option for standard cocktails served over ice, but can be used for straight pours, too. So whether you take it neat or on the rocks, this is a fine glass to sip your spirits from.
Martini
For drinks served chilled but without ice, reach for the iconic martini glass. The stem prevents your hands from warming the cocktail, so your drink stays colder, longer. Similar to a wine glass, the wide opening aerates the alcohol, allowing it to open. Pro tip: Joly loves martini and coupe glasses for fun presentations of sabayon, berries and cream, trifles, gazpachos, shrimp cocktail, ceviche and more.
Ready to start mixing up your own cocktails? We’ve got everything you need!
