Best Glasses for Summer Cocktails

Written By Irina Costea

There's something special about a perfectly served summer cocktail or mocktail.

Crisp spritzes, tropical creations, citrus-forward classics, and frozen favorites all deserve glassware that complements their character. With or without alcohol.

Whether you're entertaining outdoors or enjoying a quiet evening on the patio, the right glass enhances aroma, presentation, and the overall drinking experience.

Here's our guide to the best glasses for every summer cocktail.

Highball Glass

Tall, versatile, and designed for refreshing drinks served over ice, the highball glass is a summer essential. Its shape keeps sparkling cocktails crisp while leaving plenty of room for ice, citrus slices, and fresh herbs.

Perfect for:

  • Mojito

  • Paloma

  • Gin & Tonic

  • Vodka Soda

  • Cucumber Collins

Get them from: Riedel, Libbey, Schott Zwiesel, Bormioli Rocco

Collins Glass

Sleek, tall, and slightly narrower than a highball glass, the Collins glass is designed for refreshing cocktails with plenty of ice and bubbles. Its elegant shape keeps drinks looking crisp while helping maintain carbonation.

Perfect for:

  • Tom Collins

  • John Collins

  • Gin Fizz

  • Sparkling Lemonade

  • Fizzy Mocktails

Get them from: Riedel, Libbey, Schott Zwiesel, Crate & Barrel

Coupe Glass

Elegant and timeless, the coupe glass has become a favorite for serving cocktails without ice. Its shallow bowl beautifully showcases shaken and stirred drinks while adding a sophisticated touch to any gathering.

Perfect for:

  • Daiquiri

  • French 75

  • Gimlet

  • Bee's Knees

  • Sidecar

Get them from: Riedel, Nude Glass, LSA International, CB2

Stemless Wine Glass

Practical, stylish, and easy to hold, stemless wine glasses are perfect for relaxed outdoor entertaining. Their versatile design makes them ideal for cocktails, mocktails, spritzes, and sangrias alike.

Perfect for:

  • Aperol Spritz

  • White Sangria

  • Rosé Spritz

  • Sparkling Mocktails

  • Fruit Punch

Get them from: Crate & Barrel, Libbey, Pottery Barn, IKEA

Margarita Glass

Recognizable by its wide rim and festive shape, the margarita glass is made for frozen and shaken cocktails. It provides the perfect surface for salted or sugared rims while showcasing colorful garnishes.

Perfect for:

  • Classic Margarita

  • Frozen Strawberry Margarita

  • Mango Margarita

  • Watermelon Margarita

  • Frozen Mocktails

Get them from: Crate & Barrel, Libbey, Bormioli Rocco, Riedel

Hurricane Glass

Designed for tropical cocktails, the hurricane glass features a tall, curved silhouette that beautifully displays colorful drinks, crushed ice, and generous fruit garnishes.

Perfect for:

  • Piña Colada

  • Hurricane

  • Blue Hawaiian

  • Bahama Mama

  • Rum Punch

Get them from: Crate & Barrel, Libbey, Bormioli Rocco, Viski

Mason Jar

Casual, durable, and perfect for outdoor gatherings, mason jars have become a favorite for serving rustic cocktails and refreshing mocktails. They're ideal for picnics, backyard parties, and summer entertaining.

Perfect for:

  • Berry Lemonade

  • Peach Iced Tea Cocktail

  • Citrus Mocktails

  • Sweet Tea Cocktail

  • Strawberry Lemonade

Get them from: Ball, Anchor Hocking, IKEA, Kilner

Final notes

What is the most versatile summer cocktail glass?

A highball glass is the most versatile option. It works for cocktails, mocktails, sparkling drinks, iced tea, and lemonade.

Are stemless wine glasses good for cocktails?

Yes. They're an excellent choice for spritzes, sangrias, and casual outdoor entertaining.

Which glass is best for frozen cocktails?

A margarita glass is the classic choice, while hurricane glasses also work beautifully for tropical frozen drinks.

Summer cocktails deserve glassware that's just as refreshing as the drinks themselves.

Whether you prefer timeless coupes, versatile highballs, or colorful hurricane glasses, choosing the right glass transforms every pour into a memorable experience.

Irina Costea
Previous

Cocktail Glassware Essentials