Last Updated on April 13, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Now that you’ve picked out the right bottle of bourbon, it’s time to choose the best-looking glass to complete your drinking experience.
Lucky for you, we’ve curated an amazing collection of the best bourbon glasses, so read on.
Top 20 Best Bourbon Glasses For Your Home Bar
1. James Bentley Whiskey Glasses
On the top of the list of the best bourbon glasses is the James Bentley whiskey glass that can hold 6.7 oz of your favorite bourbon. It is made from borosilicate glass and is very lightweight, so you can enjoy drinking whiskey in a modern way.
James Bentley has a double-walled glass construction to keep the melting process of ice slow and prevent condensation at the outer wall. It is perfect for your home bar or sent as a gift to Kentucky bourbon lovers.
2. Wilshire Custom DiMera Whiskey Glass
Wilshire Custom DiMera Whiskey glass is a bourbon glass with a capacity of 8.5 oz, and the glass features help release the wonderful aromas of the whiskey. DiMera is from glass, and it has a saucer-like shape that affects the bourbon’s aroma and taste.
The wide bowl helps you thoroughly swirl the bourbon for more oxidation and enhanced flavor. The narrow mouth controls the aroma straight to your nose for a more enjoyable drinking experience.
3. Hotel Astor Men’s Bar Crystal Whiskey Glass
Hotel Astor Men’s Bar Crystal Whiskey glass is one of the best whiskey glasses you can use when hosting a drinking night with your friends and family. It is a crystal bourbon glass that has a capacity of 9 oz.
The crystal glass is utilitarian and multipurpose because the artful design is visually aesthetic. You can display it at your home bar and use it for drinking different spirits and mixed drinks.
4. BrüMate Nosing Glass
BrüMate Nosing Glass is unique bourbon glassware known for its better temperature retention than other bourbon glass with a classic design. It is insulated stainless steel and is guaranteed durable because it is rust-resistant and shatterproof.
BrüMate Nosing Glass can hold 7 oz of your favorite drink, and it can be a great designer gift for bourbon drinkers.
5. Diamond Whiskey Glasses
If you want a sophisticated tasting glass that will surely impress any bourbon lover, try the Diamond Whiskey glass, which has a capacity of 10 oz. The bourbon glass set is from lead-free glass, hand-blown for durability and safety.
The diamond-shaped glass set comes with four glasses so you and your friends can enjoy bourbon in style. The opening is engineered to prevent evaporation and help you delightfully enjoy the spirit.
6. Venero Crystal Whiskey Glasses
Venero Crystal tasting glasses are crafted from premium quality crystal and can hold 10 oz of your bourbon. It has a ⅛” thick base and side to retain drink temperature and prevent ice watering if you want to drink bourbon on the rocks or old fashioned.
In addition, Venergo crystal rocks glass has a lifetime guarantee and great value for money.
7. Ashcroft Twist Whiskey Glasses
Elevate your bar with whiskey glasses from Ashcroft in their Ascroft Twist with 10 oz capacity, which comes in a set of two. The clear glass is comfortable and sturdy, thanks to its thick sides and base.
The bourbon-tasting glasses from Ashcroft have a diamond-like twist design that will surely suit personal taste. Whether drinking whiskey neat or on the rocks, Ashcroft Twist whiskey glass is premium in style and quality.
8. Skull Shot Glasses
Skull Shot glasses can be a good option if you prefer to drink bourbon neat. The crystal bourbon glasses have a skull shape, spooky yet eye-catching for your next drinking Edison.
Each shot glass holds 2.5 oz of your choice of spirit, and it is from durable and premium glass. Also, it can be a perfect gift for yourself and your friends who have a soft spot for drinking spirits.
9. Spirit Lux Aroma Enhancing Whiskey Glasses
Have satisfaction in every sip of your favorite bourbon with one of the best bourbon glasses from Spirit Lux. The bourbon-tasting glass has an aromatic design that focuses on giving aromatics and enhances the bourbon taste.
The Spirit Lux Aroma enhancing whiskey glass is made from crystal and holds 10 oz of your favorite drink. In addition, the bourbon glasses are durable, easy to clean, and dishwasher safe.
10. Norlan Whiskey Glass
Norlan whiskey glass is a double-walled bourbon glass made from borosilicate glass for a modern and lightweight design. The ideal capacity of spirit is 1.75 fl oz, but it can store up to 5.9 oz to the rim.
The whiskey glass has seamless integration and aesthetically pleasing walls for an awesome drinking experience. Moreso, it is designed to capture the complexity of aroma, alcohol burn, and spirit flavors.
11. The NEAT Glass Official Competition Judging Glass
The NEAT glass is the official judging glass made from the finest Slovakian crystalline. It helps enhance your drinking experience by designing it with effective swirling that produces oxidation.
Unlike other rock glasses, NEAT glass does not destroy your sense of smell because it has a functional design suitable for drinking whiskeys. Moreso, it has a capacity of 2 oz, which is lower than other glasses.
12. Maketh the Man Premium Art Deco Whiskey Glass Set
The Maketh the Man whiskey glass set is a stunning 5-piece decanter set made from lead-free crystal for luxury and style. Treat yourself, or a special person in your life with the best bourbon whiskey glass set packed in an elegant gift box.
The set includes a 27 oz stylish decanter and four 10 oz matching whiskey glasses perfect for bourbon and other spirits. It has a solid base, so you can use it for making popular cocktails like an Old Fashioned.
13. Zens Whisky Glass Set
Skip boring bourbon glasses with the Zens whiskey glass set that has a unique shape of an inner wall whiskey glass. The Zens is from 100% lead-free glass, and its wall structure gives a purer and better whiskey taste.
Unlike other rock glass, Zens is a cold glass that can maintain the temperature for a certain time, thanks to its inside and outside walls. Experience a water ring-free table and slow ice melt with Zens 7.4 oz bourbon glasses.
14. Glencairn Whiskey Glasses
The customized Glencairn glass is specifically designed to enjoy the best bourbon on your liquor shelf. The shape of the bourbon glasses helps channel the aroma to a narrow rim for a richer and more flavorful taste.
It is made from Glencairn glass and can hold 6 oz of your favorite spirit like any standard rocks glass. Since you can personalize the drinkware, it can be a perfect present for a whiskey connoisseur.
Read: Top Bourbon Shelf Display Ideas
15. Snowfox Stainless Steel Tumbler
If you are looking for whiskey glasses with premium insulation, you can give Snowfox Stainless Steel Tumbler a try. It is made from food-grade insulated stainless steel to keep your bourbon at the right temperature while minimizing the ice melt.
Snowfox can store 11 oz of liquid, and since it is a built-in coaster, you are now free from wet cocktail glasses! It is all-purpose drinkware and can be a perfect glass for your single malt whiskey, wine, or cocktails.
16. Golf Ball Glasses
Why get an ordinary whisky glass when you can have unique golf ball glasses for your bourbon drinking session? The golf ball glasses are made from lead-free glass and can contain 10 oz of your favorite drink.
It has a perfect size that can fit a large ice ball or ice cube so you can enjoy your bourbon on the rocks. In addition, the golf ball glasses can be a nice housewarming present because it comes in a wooden box.
17. Quinton Personalized Whiskey Glass with Ice Ball
If you are into personalized drinkware, you can check out Quinton Personalized Whiskey Glass, which comes with an ice ball mold. It is one of the best whiskey glasses in the market that you can personalize and have your initials engraved on the sidewall.
The whiskey glass can hold up to 8 oz, and it comes with a flexible silicone mold for your ice- all dishwasher safe.
18. Libbey Signature Kentucky Bourbon Trail Whiskey Glasses
Libbey Signature Kentucky Bourbon Trail whiskey glass is an exclusive design by Kentucky’s master distiller, and it greatly helps make your drinking experience enjoyable.
The set includes four 8 oz tasting glasses, all made from lead-free and BPA-free glass to ensure their safety and durability.
19. Freeze Whiskey Set
Try something new with the Freeze whiskey set, silicone drinkware that you can use to drink chilled bourbons. The insulated plastic walls are engineered to keep bourbon chilled without watering it down by freezing it for two hours before using it.
Moreso, it can hold 7 oz of your drink, and it comes with a silicone band to make the glass easier to grip.
20. MOFADO Crystal Whiskey Glasses
If you want a nice and simple bourbon glass, you can never go wrong with classic MOFADO crystal whiskey glasses. MOFADO is made from ultra-clear crystal and has a capacity of 11 oz. It is designed with a weighted bottom and thick sides to accommodate oversized whiskey stones.
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Buying Guide
Style
Best bourbon glasses start at the personal preference of the drinker, so check for styles that best fit your personality. There are unlimited options of bourbon glass styles, so whether you are more of a Jim Belushi or James Bond, there’s a style that can fit you.
Materials
Crystal
Crystal is the most expensive material option for bourbon glasses. Previously, crystal glasses contained lead, but since lead poisoning can pose health problems [1], manufacturers have switched to potassium oxide, zinc oxide, and barium oxide. Crystal glasses are elegant and prized for durability, sparkle, clarity, and density.
Stainless Steel
Some people would love or hate stainless steel glass, but it is about the same price as glassware, plus it is multipurpose. It is easy to clean and one of the most durable materials for bourbon glasses. Moreso, it has great temperature retention than other selections of drinkware.
Glass
If you want affordable and functional tasting glasses, there’s a wide selection of bourbon glasses made from glass. Also, since it is a versatile material, there are almost endless styles to choose from. However, it can easily break, unlike crystal, insulated stainless steel, and Tritan plastic.
Tritan Plastic
Tritan plastic is the least expensive material for bourbon drinkware and can be a great option if you are looking for affordable alternatives. It is impact resistant and lightweight, so most drinkers love to collect it too!
Shape
Rocks
Rocks are the most common whiskey glass shape, known by other names like Tumbler, Lowball, and Old Fashioned. It has a solid base, straight sides, and wide rim glass ideal for cocktails. It may not be ideal for beginners but can be a great addition to your bourbon glass collection.
Tulip
Tulip-shaped glass is commonly called dock glass or copita style because it has a slightly narrow rim. It is appropriate for tasting bourbon because the bowl shape on its base helps with oxidation when swirling and enhances the aroma of the bourbon.
Glencairn
Glencairn whiskey glass was designed way back in 2001 to create an ideal glass for whiskey. The design has a short stable base and thick walls and allows easy handling. Since it is advisable to swirl, the shape of Glencairn glasses direct the aroma to your nose when you sip.
Balloon
While there are different modern shapes, we also welcome the traditional balloon glass, commonly known as brandy bowl, cognac glass, or snifter. It is a standard glass for an aged drink because it has a tight rim and extra-wide body.
NEAT
NEAT is a cool-looking glass ideal for neutralizing the harsh aroma of the distilled spirits. The neat shape was a simple glass blowing mistake in 2002, resulting in Naturally Engineered Aroma Technology (NEAT). It gives a scientific approach to the design incorporating human physiology, chemistry, and physics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does a bourbon glass make a difference?
Yes, a bourbon glass makes a difference because it helps drinkers pick up flavors and aromas of the spirit. Also, there are different shapes of glasses ideal for bourbon tasting that helps enhance the taste of the distilled spirit.
Does the shape of a bourbon glass matter?
Yes, the shape of a bourbon glass matters because it significantly affects the aroma coming off the bourbon and its actual tasting experience. A narrow rim helps direct the aroma, while a wide base helps with the swirling that contributes to the flavor profile of the bourbon.
What type of glass is best for bourbon?
The type of glass often considered best for enjoying bourbon is the Glencairn glass. The Glencairn glass is a tulip-shaped whisky glass designed to enhance the whiskey-drinking experience.
Its shape concentrates the aromas, allowing the drinker to fully appreciate the nuances of the bourbon’s scent.
The wide bowl at the base allows for easy swirling and enhances the visual aspect of the whiskey.
What is the best glass for tasting whiskey?
The Glencairn glass is widely regarded as one of the best glasses for tasting whiskey. Its shape facilitates the concentration of aromas, which is crucial for fully experiencing the whiskey’s bouquet.
The narrow opening at the top captures and directs the aromas towards the nose, providing a more focused and immersive tasting experience. Other options for whiskey tasting glasses include the Copita glass, Norlan glass, and the traditional tumbler.
Do bourbon glasses make a difference?
Yes, the type of glass used for bourbon can make a significant difference in the overall drinking experience. Specialized bourbon glasses, such as the Glencairn glass, are designed to enhance the sensory aspects of enjoying whiskey.
The shape of the glass can affect the concentration of aromas, the ease of swirling, and the overall visual appeal of the bourbon. While using any glass can allow you to enjoy bourbon, a purpose-designed glass may elevate the experience by emphasizing the whiskey’s unique qualities.
What is considered a glass of bourbon?
A standard serving of bourbon is typically around 1.5 ounces (44 milliliters). This is a common measure for neat or on-the-rocks servings. However, the amount of bourbon in a glass can vary depending on personal preference, the type of drink being prepared (e.g., cocktails), and regional or cultural practices.
Are there special glasses for bourbon?
Yes, there are special glasses designed specifically for enjoying bourbon. The Glencairn glass is one such example, known for its tulip shape that enhances the tasting experience by concentrating aromas.
Other options include traditional tumblers, Copita glasses, and Norlan glasses, each with unique features designed to complement the characteristics of bourbon.
While any glass can be used for drinking bourbon, specialized glasses are crafted to optimize the sensory aspects of enjoying the spirit.
How many ounces should a bourbon glass be?
The ideal size for a bourbon glass is subjective and can vary based on personal preference and the intended use. However, a standard serving of bourbon is typically around 1.5 to 2 ounces.
Bourbon glasses, such as Glencairn glasses or traditional tumblers, often have a capacity ranging from 6 to 12 ounces, providing enough room for ice or water if desired.
Should whiskey glasses be thick or thin?
Whiskey glasses can come in both thick and thin designs, each with its own set of advantages. Thicker glasses may offer durability and a substantial feel in the hand, while thinner glasses can provide a more delicate and elegant appearance.
The choice between thick and thin glasses often depends on personal preference and the desired aesthetic and tactile experience.
Is crystal or glass better for whiskey?
The choice between crystal and glass for whiskey is a matter of personal preference. Crystal glasses are known for their clarity, brilliance, and ability to enhance the visual experience of the whiskey.
They may also produce a distinct, resonant sound when clinked together. However, glassware made from high-quality materials can also provide an excellent whiskey-drinking experience.
Ultimately, the choice between crystal and glass depends on individual preferences and priorities, including aesthetic considerations and budget.
What is the classic whiskey glass?
The classic whiskey glass is often considered to be the tumbler or rocks glass. This short, wide glass typically has a thick bottom and is designed for serving whiskey neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned.
While the tumbler is a timeless and widely used option, other classic whiskey glasses include the Glencairn glass and Copita glass, each designed to enhance the tasting experience by concentrating aromas.
How can you tell the quality of bourbon?
Several factors contribute to assessing the quality of bourbon:
Appearance: Quality bourbon often exhibits a clear and appealing color, influenced by its aging process in charred oak barrels.
Aroma: Aroma is a crucial aspect of bourbon quality. High-quality bourbon will have a complex and inviting nose, showcasing a range of scents such as caramel, vanilla, oak, and spices.
Flavor: The palate should reflect a well-balanced and harmonious blend of flavors. Quality bourbon will showcase its grain characteristics, sweetness, and a pleasing combination of other notes.
Finish: A smooth and lingering finish is often indicative of quality bourbon. The aftertaste should be enjoyable and consistent with the overall flavor profile.
Brand Reputation: Researching and choosing bourbons from reputable and well-established distilleries can be a good indicator of quality.
While individual preferences play a significant role, these factors can guide enthusiasts in assessing the quality of bourbon and selecting bottles that align with their taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
James Bentley Whiskey Glasses is the best glass for drinking bourbon. It features a modern and engineered design for temperature retention and visual aesthetic. Moreso, it holds an ideal capacity of bourbon that you can sip neat or on the rocks.
The shape of James Bentley Whiskey Glasses helps enhance the whiskey aromas, is lead-free, and is very lightweight.
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