Gin and tonic glasses for bars (2)

Gin and tonic glasses with a large bowl

Gin glasses usually have a distinctive, rounded bowl set on a stem. This shape provides space for plenty of ice, tonic and garnishes, whilst allowing you to hold the glass comfortably without warming the drink with your hand.

The wide bowl looks great with:

• large ice cubes,
• slices of citrus fruit,
• fresh and dried fruit,
• herbs such as rosemary, mint or basil,
• spices and botanical additions,
• clear and colourful cocktails.

The right capacity helps maintain the right balance between alcohol, tonic and ice without filling the glass to the brim.

Why is gin served in a balloon glass?

The large, balloon-shaped bowl provides more space for ice than a classic tall glass. This allows the drink to be chilled whilst minimising excessive dilution, particularly when larger ice cubes are used.

The rounded shape also helps to trap the aromas of the gin, botanicals and garnishes closer to the top of the bowl. The wide rim, meanwhile, makes it easier to prepare elaborate garnishes and add ingredients with ease.

What drinks are gin glasses suitable for?

Although glasses of this type are primarily associated with gin and tonic, they can be used for a variety of drinks served over ice.

They are ideal for, amongst other things:

• a classic Gin & Tonic,
• gin-based cocktails,
• flavoured and non-alcoholic gins,
• spritzes and aperitifs,
• fruit cocktails,
• lemonades and soft drinks,
• signature barman’s creations.

When choosing a glass, it is worth considering the volume of the finished drink, the amount of ice and the size of the garnishes used in the recipe.

How do you choose the right glass size for gin?

A large glass does not mean it should be filled completely with liquid. Part of its capacity is taken up by ice, fruit and other additions, whilst the remaining space facilitates the safe preparation and serving of the drink.

Before purchasing, it is worth checking:

• the standard amount of gin used in the recipe,
• the volume of tonic or other mixer,
• the type and amount of ice,
• the size of the garnish,
• the distance of the drink from the rim,
• the appearance of the finished drink in the glass.

A good idea is to prepare a test serving in accordance with the venue’s standard. This allows you to assess whether the glass provides the correct proportions and leaves enough space for garnishes.

Glass and crystal glasses

Gin glasses can be made from standard glass or crystal. The material affects the clarity, shine, weight, wall thickness and character of the finished presentation.

Glass glasses

Glass models are ideal for everyday use in bars, restaurants, hotels and catering companies. They can have a simple, modern design or a decorative surface that further enhances the appearance of the cocktail.

Glass glasses

Crystal glass is characterised by its high transparency and elegant lustre. It showcases the colour of the drink, the ice and any garnishes well, which is why it is often chosen for hotel bars, à la carte restaurants and more prestigious settings.

The properties of individual models may vary, so please check the product information regarding the material and recommended cleaning method on the product page before use.

Gin glasses in restaurants and bars

Large balloon glasses are particularly useful in establishments that offer several types of gin, various tonics and garnishes tailored to the profile of a specific drink.

They can be used in:

• cocktail bars,
• à la carte restaurants,
• hotel bars and lobby bars,
• bistros and nightspots,
• banquet halls,
• catering companies,
• at weddings and corporate events.

A standardised glass design helps maintain a consistent look for the cocktail menu and allows drinks to be prepared to a consistent standard.

How should you garnish a gin and tonic?

The large bowl offers plenty of possibilities for decoration, but the garnishes should complement the gin’s aroma and not make it difficult for the guest to drink.

You can use, amongst other things, the following for garnishing:

• slices or zest of lemon, lime and orange,
• grapefruit and other fresh fruits,
• berries and dried fruit,
• rosemary, mint, thyme or basil,
• cucumber,
• pepper, juniper and botanical spices,
• edible flowers.

Garnishes should enhance the drink’s aromatic profile rather than overpower it. Too many garnishes can also take up space needed for ice and tonic.

The importance of ice when serving gin

Ice is responsible for chilling the drink, but it also affects its dilution and appearance. A large glass allows for the use of larger cubes, ice balls or several standard-sized cubes in line with the venue’s standards.

When preparing the drink, it is advisable to:

• use the right amount of clean ice,
• match the size of the ice cubes to the bowl,
• do not overfill the glass with extras,
• leave a safe space at the rim,
• ensure the garnishes are arranged aesthetically.

The stem, base and ease of use

The stem allows you to hold the glass without cupping the bowl in your hand, which helps to keep the drink cool for longer. It should be comfortable to hold and proportionate to the size of the glass.

With a large bowl, a stable base is particularly important. Before introducing the glassware to the premises, it is worth checking whether a full glass:

• stands stably on the table and bar,
• is comfortable to hold,
• fits securely on a tray,
• is not too heavy when full,
• fits into the dishwashers used,
• can be stored conveniently.

Washing and storing gin glasses

Always follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions. A large bowl requires a suitable basket and enough space to ensure it does not come into contact with other items during the cycle.

To minimise the risk of damage and water marks, it is advisable to:

• use baskets that fit the height of the glasses,
• position the glasses securely and at appropriate intervals,
• avoid contact between rims and bowls,
• use the correct amount of detergent and rinse aid,
• allow the glassware to air-dry,
• polish the glasses without twisting the base and bowl in opposite directions.

Before purchasing a larger quantity, it is also worth checking the height of the shelves, the dimensions of the baskets and how the glassware is transported between the bar and the washing-up area.

What should you look out for before buying?

When choosing gin glasses for a professional venue, it is worth checking:

• the capacity and diameter of the bowl,
• the total height of the glass,
• the diameter and stability of the base,
• the type of glass,
• the thickness of the rim,
• how comfortable it is to hold and carry,
• whether it is dishwasher-safe,
• how well it fits into baskets, trays and storage spaces.

It’s also worth testing the glass with an actual cocktail recipe, ice and garnishes. This allows you to assess the drink’s appearance, the glass’s stability and how comfortable it is for the barman and staff to use.

Why choose professional gin glasses?

• they provide space for gin, tonic, ice and garnishes,
• they showcase the colour and ingredients used in the drink,
• they allow you to prepare classic and signature cocktails,
• the stem helps to minimise the drink being warmed by the hand,
• they are available in glass and crystal,
• they are ideal for bars, restaurants, hotels and catering.

Discover gin and tonic glasses and choose the glassware to suit your recipes, drink presentation and the character of your venue.