If you click a link on this page and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
In the world of bartending, precision, style, and quality of tools play an integral part in not just crafting cocktails but also adding charm and sophistication to the whole experience.
Patrons don’t want their cocktails created with an old jug you found under the sink, instead, they want high-quality tools that inspire elegance and professionalism as they watch you craft a masterpiece.
One such indispensable tool is the mixing glass. Whilst a relatively basic tool that does exactly what it says on the tin, brands are constantly innovating with new designs and functions that could revolutionize your mixology game.
That’s why in this post, we’re going to take a look at the 6 best mixing glasses on the market to ensure you’re serving guests in style, whether that’s at home or in a high-end cocktail bar.
So, if you’re keen on refining your bartending arsenal, shaking up a storm, and stirring up some magic, you’re in the right place!
Keep reading to discover the best mixing glasses that money can buy.
|
Top Pick
|
Best Budget
|
Best Premium
|
|
|
|
|
|
$27.99
|
$16.95
|
$24.95
|
1. Diamond Cut Cocktail Mixing Glass
When it comes to mixing glasses, it’s important to use one that is strong, durable and looks the part. That’s why this cocktail glass is our top pick as the best overall.
Made from lead-free, hand-blown, crystal clear glass, you can be sure that this mixing glass can withstand hundreds if not thousands of cocktails thanks to its strong and durable design.
It has a seamless construction which means there are no weak seams that could make it smash and become a serious hazard for any bartender.
Its 550ml/18-ounce size makes it the perfect size for holding firmly with one hand and mixing one or two cocktails, allowing you to save precious time behind the bar by crafting multiple drinks at once.
What sets it apart is its compatibility with all industry-standard Julep and Hawthorne cocktail strainers, making it an incredibly versatile addition to your bartending toolkit.
The weighted base is heavy and flat which helps to keep it firmly in place as you stir. It has the perfect angle to allow your bar spoon to glide effortlessly around the glass while crafting drinks.
It’s dishwasher friendly and has an awesome Yarai-style design that makes it stand out behind any commercial or home bar.
2. Classic Cocktail Mixing Glass
Similar to the Diamond Cut variation, meet the ABarAbove classic variation – a splendid fusion of aesthetics and resilience that will make your bartending experience nothing short of exceptional.
Every element of this 550ml (18oz) mixing glass has been meticulously designed, making it not only visually appealing but also incredibly functional.
Strong glass, durable design, and compatibility with all industry-standard Julep and Hawthorne strainers are the key features of this mixing glass.
It’s the perfect choice for stirring your favorite cocktail – be it your first Manhattan or your thousandth Martini.
If the Yarai-style mixing glass doesn’t catch your eye and you prefer a more simple aesthetic, the classic cocktail mixing glass is a fantastic option.
3. Viski Pedestal Cocktail Mixing Glass
Designed for expert bartenders, this 23-ounce lead-free crystal mixing glass is made and sized to match professional-grade tools used by bartenders.
It has a thick, heavy base that holds strong to the surface and prevents the glass from slipping and sliding while trying to create drinks.
This makes it easy to swirl your mixtures with a bar spoon without having to worry about spillages and makes it the perfect tool for mixing Old Fashioned, Negroni, and Manhattan cocktails.
Stirring cocktails isn’t just about creating drinks. It’s about creating a visual experience for your guests to enjoy, so it’s important to use tools that captivate patrons.
The elegant design of this mixing glass makes ice sparkle, grabs the attention of customers, and looks great behind any home or commercial bar.
Viski is well-known to test its products in the real world, so you can be sure that this mixing glass has been tried and tested and received the seal of approval from bartenders.
4. JoyJolt Mixing Glass Pitcher
If you’re looking for a mixing glass that isn’t going to break the bank but is still high-quality, the JoyJolt mixing glass pitcher ticks all of the boxes, including the price.
This 20-ounce pitcher has an easy-to-handle grip, thick rim, and half-inch base that keeps it firmly on the surface without sliding around.
Crafted from robust soda lime glass, this mixing glass is designed to endure and inspire. Despite its vintage appeal reminiscent of glass beakers of old, rest assured, it’s completely lead-free.
What’s truly impressive is the ‘cut crystal’ look, achieved through innovative hand-debossing technology, which lends an air of sophisticated subtlety to your bar cart without the over-the-top detailing.
Packed in a drop-tested gift box, and backed by a 12-month guarantee, it’s a statement of class, a perfect gift for someone you care about.
5. Suprobarware Cocktail Mixing Glass
This 17-ounce lead-free crystal mixing glass is perfect whether it’s being used behind a home bar, in a commercial bar, or packed as a gift for cocktail enthusiasts.
Crafted with a heavy-weighted base and thick 1/4″ walls, it ensures safety and stability with every drink. Due to its size, this mixing glass allows you to concoct two servings of your favorite spirits at a time.
The wide mouth and beaker-like spout ensure a smooth, spill-free pour, adding to the overall experience and ease of use.
Its Japanese diamond design is kind on the eyes and is sure to be a conversation starter.
In the box, you’ll find a beautifully fashioned 17oz (500ml) cocktail mixing glass, just waiting to be a part of your esteemed bar collection.
Not to mention, if this mixing glass isn’t everything you wanted and more, you can get a full refund within 30 days.
6. Mofado Weighted Mixing Glass
Now we’re talking. For those that pride themselves on premium and class, the Mofado weighted cocktail glass is a game changer.
This mixing glass has been hand-blown from 100% lead-free crystal glass, promising a safe and pure cocktail experience that is sure to deliver.
Design-wise, it’s a real eye-catcher. You won’t find any weakened seams or crack on this product, and instead can rest assured that it’s of incredibly high quality.
Step into the role of a professional mixologist and create, strain, and serve your favorite drinks, such as Whiskey, Martinis, Manhattans, or Old Fashioneds, with poise and confidence.
Weighing in a 1.3 pounds, the weighted bottom keeps it firmly on the surface which makes it easy for you to grip it with one hand and stir your mix with the other.
Whilst it is the most expensive of the six mixing glasses we’ve listed in this post, it ticks all of the boxes and even comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
>> Read more: 8 BEST Aprons For Bartenders
What To Look For In A Mixing Glass
When shopping for a mixing glass, there are several factors to consider that will help ensure you select the right glass for your needs.
Here’s what to look out for to ensure you choose the right one.
Type
Mixing glasses come in a variety of types that can broadly be classified into Yarai and seamless types.
Yarai glasses, recognizable by their diamond-cut pattern, are elegant and traditionally used in Japanese cocktail-making.
Seamless mixing glasses, on the other hand, are typically more durable and practical because they lack seams that can make the glass more susceptible to breakage.
The type of mixing glass you choose will depend on your personal preference and the demands of your bartending environment.
Personally, I’ve always been a fan of the Yarai glasses as I believe they look for aesthetic than most other styles. They stand out behind any bar and are a great talking point whilst crafting a guest’s drink.
>> Read more: 7 BEST Cocktail Strainers For Bartenders
Style
Style is an important aspect to consider, especially if the glass is going to be used in a professional setting or if you enjoy showcasing your cocktail-making process to friends or guests.
Do you prefer a classic, timeless look, or do you want something modern and sleek?
Some mixing glasses feature etched patterns or unique shapes that add a decorative touch. Others are more straightforward and focused on functionality.
This is all about personal preference and which type of mixing glass catches your eye and will suit your working environment.
>> Read more: 9 BEST Jiggers For Bartenders
Features
There are several features you should consider when selecting a mixing glass:
Size and Capacity
Mixing glasses come in different sizes. Some are designed for single cocktails, while others can handle multiple drinks at once.
Think about how you typically use a mixing glass and choose a capacity that matches your needs.
>> Read more: 7 BEST Hip Flasks For Every Occasion
Durability
A good mixing glass needs to be strong and sturdy. Look for a glass with a thick, weighted base for stability and hand-blown or seamless construction for durability.
Compatibility
Check that the mixing glass is compatible with the types of strainers you typically use, like Julep or Hawthorne strainers.
Ease of Use
The best mixing glass is one that feels comfortable and balanced in your hand. The interior should be smooth, allowing your bar spoon to glide effortlessly around the glass.
>> Read more: 6 BEST Muddlers For Bartenders
FAQs
What is the best size for a cocktail mixing glass?
A standard mixing glass usually has a capacity ranging between 16 ounces (about 475 ml) and 24 ounces (about 710 ml).
This is a practical size for most bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts as it allows for the preparation of one or two cocktails at a time.
I’m a 24-ounce kind of guy. I like to be able to serve multiple drinks in one mixing glass for speed and efficiency, but everyone is different.
If it’s a home bar your using the glass for, then you may be better off with a 18-ounces, but that’s your decision to make.
Do I really need a cocktail mixing glass?
YES. If you’re serious about bartending and don’t want to look or feel like an amateur, you need to be working with the right tools, which include a mixing glass.
A mixing glass is a crucial tool in the bartender’s arsenal for creating stirred cocktails like Martinis, Manhattans, or Old Fashioneds.
It adds a touch of elegance and ritual to the process, and it’s generally more visually appealing for your guests if you’re making cocktails in front of them.
What is the difference between a mixing glass and a pint glass?
A mixing glass is usually made of high-quality, clear, thick glass, and is specifically designed for cocktail preparation.
Its walls are straight, and it has a heavy, stable base to stand up to the rigors of cocktail stirring. Many mixing glasses also feature a spout for easy and clean pouring.
On the other hand, a pint glass is typically more utilitarian in nature. It is designed to be durable and versatile for serving a variety of beers and other beverages.
Pint glasses are often made of slightly thinner glass, and they don’t usually have a pouring spout.
Whilst some bartenders do use a pint glass for mixing drinks, it’s much better and safer to use a mixing glass.
Can I muddle ingredients in a cocktail mixing glass?
Yes, you can muddle ingredients in a mixing glass, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
First, make sure your mixing glass is sturdy and thick enough to withstand the pressure. Hand-blown, seamless mixing glasses are often quite durable and can typically handle muddling.
However, if your mixing glass is thinner or more delicate, you may want to avoid muddling directly in it, as the pressure applied during muddling could potentially crack or break the glass.
In this case, it might be safer to muddle your ingredients in a shaker tin or a sturdy, thick-bottomed glass, and then transfer them to the mixing glass.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, ALL bartenders whether manning the home bar or in a fancy establishment should be equipped with a high-quality mixing glass.
My advice is to consider the type, style, and features you need from a mixing glass based on the type of bartender and the environment you work in.
If you’re a busy bartender that works in a fast-paced commercial bar, you’ll likely want to opt for a mixing glass that has a higher capacity so that you can make multiple drinks at once.
But if you’re trying to create an aesthetic in your home bar, it may be a better option to opt for a smaller but more stylish mixing glass as it’s unlikely you’ll need to create multiple drinks at once (unless your friends are like mine!)
Whatever your needs from a mixing glass, you’re in good hands with the six mentioned above.