What’s the Difference Between a Rocks Glass and an Old Fashioned Glass?

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When it comes to enjoying a good drink, the glass you choose can make all the difference. But let’s face it, sometimes the terminology can be as confusing as trying to pronounce “Ouzo” after a few too many cocktails. Today, we’re diving into the world of glassware to tackle a burning question: what’s the difference between a rocks glass and an Old Fashioned glass? Spoiler alert: they’re not as different as you might think, but let’s break it down anyway!

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Old Fashioned

Recipe card

4.54 / 5

Whisky glass

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink

15 key ingredients

Cocktail Of The Day

100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die

100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)

Invented

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1806

Base ingredient

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Bourbon

Calories

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104 calories

Garnish

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Orange, cocktail cherry

Alcohol content

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40% | 1.8 units of alcohol ^*

Details

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Classic

Stirred

<p>The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail with a rich history and a bold, complex flavor profile. Originating in the mid-1800s, it is one of the oldest known recipes for mixed drinks.</p><p>The traditional recipe calls for just three ingredients: sugar, bitters, and bourbon. The sugar cube provides a touch of sweetness, while the Angostura bitters add a depth of flavor with their complex blend of spices and herbs.</p><p>The bourbon, with its smooth, smoky character, is the star of the show, providing a warm and comforting kick. When mixed together with ice and stirred well, the Old Fashioned is a perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and boozy, making it a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.</p>

Ingredients

Sugar

Angostura Bitters

Bourbon

Method

How to make a Old Fashioned

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes

Muddle the sugar with the Angostura bitters and a few splashes water in an old fashioned glass

Fill the glass with ice and add the bourbon

Stir gently

Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry and serve

~ The Old Fashioned can be made with bourbon or other whisky. ~

Makers mode

View the full recipe

The Old Fashioned Glass

The Old Fashioned glass, often referred to as a lowball or tumbler, is a classic piece of barware that has stood the test of time. Named after the popular cocktail it serves, this glass is a staple in any home bar. Its wide mouth allows for easy mixing of ingredients, while its sturdy base provides the perfect platform for muddling. After all, who doesn’t love a good muddle?

Typically, the Old Fashioned glass holds around 6 to 10 ounces of liquid, making it ideal for cocktails served on the rocks. But don’t let that fool you; it’s also great for neat spirits or even a cheeky splash of soda. The design is simple yet elegant, making it suitable for both casual gatherings and more sophisticated soirées. So whether you’re sipping whiskey with friends or pretending to be James Bond, this glass has you covered.

Quick Facts About Old Fashioned Glass

Here are a few quick facts to impress your friends the next time you’re at the bar:

• Also known as a lowball or rocks glass.

• Commonly used for cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Negroni, and Whiskey Sour.

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  Negroni

  Recipe card

  4.84 / 5

  Lowball / rocks glass

  Microbadges

  IBA Official Drink

  Cocktail Of The Day

  100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die

  100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)

  Invented

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  1919

  Base ingredient

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  Gin

  Calories

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  178 calories

  Garnish

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  Orange

  Alcohol content

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  28% | 2.52 units of alcohol ^*

  Details

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  Easy

  Classic

  Stirred

  <p>The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that has been enjoyed for over a century. The drink is made up of equal parts gin, Campari, and red vermouth, resulting in a harmonious balance of flavors.</p><p>The origins of the Negroni trace back to the early 1900s, when Count Camillo Negroni requested for his Americano cocktail to be made stronger by replacing the soda water with gin. The result was a bold and bitter-sweet concoction that became an instant hit.</p><p>The combination of the herbal notes from the gin, the bitter and citrusy flavors of Campari, and the rich sweetness of red vermouth creates a complex and sophisticated taste. The Negroni is often garnished with an orange peel, adding a zesty aroma to the drink.</p><p>Whether sipped on a warm summer evening or enjoyed as an aperitif before a meal, the Negroni is a timeless classic that continues to be a favorite amongst cocktail enthusiasts.</p>

  Ingredients

  

  Gin

  

  Campari

  

  Red vermouth

  Method
  

  How to make a Negroni

  Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes

  Add all the ingredients directly into a lowball glass with ice and stir

  Garnish with an orange slice and serve

  Makers mode

  View the full recipe
• Typically made from glass or crystal, offering a range of styles and designs.

Key Features and Design Elements

What sets the Old Fashioned glass apart? For starters, its design is all about functionality. The thick base not only adds weight (which is great for dramatic clinking sounds), but it also helps to keep your drink cold longer. The wide rim allows for the aromatic notes of your drink to waft up, enhancing the overall tasting experience. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy the classic look of a well-crafted glass in their hand?

Another key feature is its versatility. While it’s named after a cocktail, it can be used for anything from a simple whiskey neat to a fancy dessert. Imagine sipping a creamy chocolate mousse from an Old Fashioned glass—now that’s a dessert upgrade!

Moreover, the Old Fashioned glass has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. It is said to have originated in the United States, where bartenders would serve whiskey cocktails in these sturdy tumblers. The Old Fashioned cocktail itself, made with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus, became a symbol of sophistication and simplicity, embodying the essence of classic cocktail culture. This glass has witnessed countless toasts and celebrations, making it not just a vessel, but a keeper of memories.

In recent years, the Old Fashioned glass has also found its way into the world of craft cocktails, where mixologists experiment with various ingredients and techniques to elevate traditional recipes. The glass's robust design allows for creative garnishes, such as fresh herbs or exotic fruits, to be added, making each drink not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a casual drinker, the Old Fashioned glass invites you to explore the art of mixology in style.

The Rocks Glass

Now, let’s talk about the rocks glass. You might be wondering, “Isn’t that the same thing?” Well, not exactly. The rocks glass is essentially a cousin to the Old Fashioned glass, with a few subtle differences that make it unique. While some people use the terms interchangeably, there are nuances that can help you distinguish between the two.

Like the Old Fashioned glass, the rocks glass is also designed for cocktails served over ice. However, it typically has a slightly shorter and wider profile. This design allows for a more generous serving of ice, which is perfect for keeping your drink chilled without diluting it too quickly. After all, nobody wants a watered-down cocktail before they’ve even finished it!

Quick Facts About Rocks Glass

Here are some quick facts that will make you the life of the party:

• Often used for serving spirits on the rocks, hence the name!
• Commonly holds 6 to 10 ounces, similar to the Old Fashioned glass.
• Can be found in a variety of styles, from simple to ornate.

Characteristics and Usage Tips

When it comes to characteristics, the rocks glass is all about practicality. Its sturdy build makes it perfect for both casual and formal occasions. Whether you’re lounging on the couch or hosting a fancy dinner party, this glass can handle it all. Plus, its low profile means it’s less likely to tip over—because nobody wants to be the person who spills their drink all over the table.

For usage tips, consider the type of drink you’re serving. If you’re going for a classic whiskey on the rocks, the rocks glass is your best bet. However, if you’re mixing up an Old Fashioned, you might want to opt for the Old Fashioned glass to truly embrace the cocktail’s heritage. And remember, presentation matters! Garnish your drinks with a twist of citrus or a cherry to elevate the experience.

In conclusion, while the Old Fashioned glass and rocks glass may seem similar, they each have their own charm and purpose. The Old Fashioned glass is perfect for cocktails that require a bit of muddling, while the rocks glass is ideal for serving spirits over ice. So the next time you’re at the bar or hosting a gathering, you can confidently choose the right glass for your drink of choice. Cheers to that!