The Manhattan. A timeless classic. A drink synonymous with sophistication and the golden age of cocktails. But beyond the perfect blend of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters, lies another crucial element: the glass. Selecting the right glass for your Manhattan isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about enhancing the entire drinking experience. This article explores the nuances of glass selection for this iconic cocktail, delving into shapes, materials, and the subtle ways they impact aroma, temperature, and overall enjoyment.
The Coupe Glass: Elegance and Functionality
The coupe glass, with its wide, shallow bowl and elegant stem, is a popular choice for serving a Manhattan. Its history is rich, originating in 17th-century England, initially intended for champagne. However, its versatility has made it a favorite for cocktails like the Manhattan.
Why the Coupe Works for a Manhattan
The coupe’s design offers several advantages. Its wide mouth allows the aromatic compounds of the Manhattan – the whiskey, vermouth, and bitters – to fully express themselves, enhancing the sensory experience. The stem prevents your hand from warming the drink, maintaining its chill and preserving the delicate balance of flavors. The shallow bowl also makes for easier sipping and allows for a visual appreciation of the cocktail’s color.
Considerations When Choosing a Coupe
When selecting a coupe for your Manhattan, consider the size and shape. A standard coupe typically holds between 6 and 8 ounces, which is perfect for a classic Manhattan. Look for a glass with a thin rim for a more refined drinking experience. The stem should be long enough to comfortably hold the glass without warming the bowl. Also, the quality of the glass itself is important; a clear, lead-free crystal glass will showcase the cocktail’s color and clarity to its best advantage.
The Martini Glass: Iconic, but Not Always Ideal
The Martini glass, with its inverted cone shape, is another commonly used vessel for Manhattans, often interchanged with the coupe. Its iconic silhouette has become synonymous with cocktail culture.
The Martini Glass and the Manhattan: A Matter of Preference
While the Martini glass offers a visually striking presentation, its suitability for a Manhattan is debated. The wide opening, while allowing for aroma release, also contributes to a faster warming of the drink and potential spillage if not handled carefully.
Potential Drawbacks of the Martini Glass
The primary drawback of the Martini glass for a Manhattan is its tendency to warm quickly due to the large surface area exposed to the air and the drinker’s hand. This can compromise the cocktail’s chill and alter its flavor profile as the ingredients warm up. Furthermore, the steep sides of the Martini glass can make it prone to spills, especially when the glass is full. Finally, the pointed bottom can be less stable than the rounded base of a coupe.
The Rocks Glass (Old Fashioned Glass): An Unconventional Choice
The rocks glass, also known as an Old Fashioned glass, is a short, sturdy tumbler typically used for serving drinks on the rocks or stirred cocktails like the Old Fashioned. While less conventional for a Manhattan, it can be a suitable option in certain situations.
Manhattan on the Rocks?
Serving a Manhattan on the rocks is generally frowned upon by cocktail purists. The ice dilutes the drink, altering its intended flavor profile. However, if you prefer a colder, slightly diluted Manhattan, a rocks glass is a viable option. In this case, the rocks glass’s sturdy construction and wide mouth make it comfortable to hold and easy to drink from.
Using a Rocks Glass for a Neat Manhattan
Even without ice, a rocks glass can be used for a Manhattan. The shorter stature provides a more casual feel, and the thicker glass can help maintain the drink’s temperature for a longer period. However, the aroma may not be as pronounced as it would be in a coupe or Martini glass due to the smaller opening.
The Nick & Nora Glass: A Modern Contender
The Nick & Nora glass, a revival of a vintage design, is gaining popularity in cocktail circles. It features a stemmed glass with a slightly flared bowl and a smaller opening than a coupe or Martini glass.
Advantages of the Nick & Nora
The Nick & Nora glass offers a good balance of aesthetics and functionality. Its stemmed design helps keep the drink cold, while its smaller opening concentrates the aromas, enhancing the drinking experience. The flared bowl allows for easy sipping and prevents spillage.
Why the Nick & Nora is a Solid Choice
The Nick & Nora glass is an excellent choice for a Manhattan because it addresses some of the drawbacks of both the coupe and the Martini glass. It minimizes warming, concentrates aromas, and reduces the risk of spills. Its elegant design also adds a touch of sophistication to the drinking experience. The glass has a retro feel reminiscent of the era when the Manhattan was created.
The Material Matters: Glass vs. Crystal
The material of the glass also plays a role in the overall drinking experience. Glass and crystal are the two primary materials used for cocktail glasses, each with its own characteristics.
Glass: Durability and Affordability
Glass is a durable and affordable option for cocktail glasses. It is typically non-porous and dishwasher-safe, making it easy to clean and maintain. However, glass is generally less clear and less refractive than crystal, which can affect the visual presentation of the cocktail.
Crystal: Clarity and Elegance
Crystal, on the other hand, is known for its exceptional clarity and brilliance. The lead content in crystal (though lead-free crystal is increasingly common) allows it to be cut into intricate designs and refract light beautifully, enhancing the visual appeal of the cocktail. Crystal is also generally thinner and more delicate than glass, which can provide a more refined drinking experience. However, crystal is typically more expensive and requires more careful handling and cleaning. Hand washing is often recommended to prevent damage.
Lead-Free Crystal: The Best of Both Worlds
Lead-free crystal offers a compromise between the durability of glass and the elegance of traditional crystal. It provides excellent clarity and brilliance without the potential health concerns associated with lead. Lead-free crystal is also typically dishwasher-safe, making it a convenient option for everyday use.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Manhattan Glass
Beyond the shape and material, several other factors should be considered when selecting the perfect glass for your Manhattan. These include size, rim thickness, weight, and overall aesthetics.
Size: The Right Capacity
The size of the glass should be appropriate for the size of the cocktail. A standard Manhattan typically consists of 3-4 ounces of liquid, so a glass with a capacity of 6-8 ounces is ideal. This allows for a comfortable amount of headspace and prevents the drink from overflowing.
Rim Thickness: A Subtle Detail
The thickness of the rim can significantly impact the drinking experience. A thin rim allows for a smoother, more seamless transition from the glass to the mouth, enhancing the perception of flavor. A thick rim, on the other hand, can feel clunky and detract from the overall experience.
Weight: Balance and Comfort
The weight of the glass should be balanced and comfortable to hold. A glass that is too heavy can feel cumbersome, while a glass that is too light can feel flimsy. The weight should be evenly distributed throughout the glass, making it easy to handle and drink from.
Aesthetics: Personal Preference
Ultimately, the choice of glass is a matter of personal preference. Consider the overall aesthetics of the glass and how it complements your personal style. Do you prefer a classic, elegant design or a more modern, minimalist look? Choose a glass that you find visually appealing and that enhances your enjoyment of the cocktail.
Beyond the Glass: Temperature and Presentation
The glass itself is only one part of the equation. Proper temperature and presentation are also crucial for creating the perfect Manhattan experience.
Chilling the Glass
Chilling the glass before serving the Manhattan is essential for maintaining the cocktail’s temperature and preventing it from warming too quickly. This can be done by placing the glass in the freezer for 30 minutes or filling it with ice water while preparing the drink. Be sure to discard the ice water and dry the glass thoroughly before pouring in the cocktail.
Garnish: The Finishing Touch
The garnish is the final touch that elevates the Manhattan to another level. A classic Manhattan is typically garnished with a maraschino cherry, but other options include a lemon twist or an orange peel. The garnish should complement the flavors of the cocktail and add a visual appeal. Skewer the cherry and place it elegantly in the glass, or express the oils of the citrus peel over the drink and then drape it over the rim.
What are the key characteristics to consider when choosing a glass for a Manhattan?
When selecting the perfect glass for a Manhattan, consider the aesthetics and functionality. A classic Manhattan experience often calls for a stemmed glass to maintain the cocktail’s chilled temperature. The glass should also have a wide enough mouth to allow the aromatics of the drink to be fully appreciated, enhancing the overall sensory experience. A well-balanced glass is crucial for ease of holding and preventing spills.
Beyond practical concerns, the glass contributes to the perceived elegance of the drink. Look for glasses with clean lines and a timeless design to complement the sophisticated nature of a Manhattan. The visual appeal significantly enhances the overall enjoyment. Lead-free crystal or high-quality glass options ensure durability and clarity, elevating the drinking experience from ordinary to special.
Why is a stemmed glass often recommended for serving Manhattans?
A stemmed glass is traditionally preferred for serving Manhattans primarily because it helps maintain the cocktail’s temperature. Holding a glass by its bowl transfers body heat, which can quickly warm up a chilled drink, diluting the flavors and diminishing the overall drinking experience. The stem provides a barrier, keeping the cocktail colder for longer.
Beyond temperature control, a stemmed glass adds an element of sophistication and elegance to the presentation of the Manhattan. The stem elevates the drink, both literally and figuratively, contributing to a more refined drinking experience. The classic design of stemmed glasses, like coupes or martini glasses, perfectly complements the timeless nature of the Manhattan cocktail itself.
What are some popular types of glasses commonly used for serving Manhattans?
Several types of glasses are commonly used for serving Manhattans, each offering a slightly different aesthetic and functional appeal. The martini glass, with its iconic V-shape, is a popular choice, offering a wide mouth for enjoying the cocktail’s aromas. Coupe glasses, with their rounded bowl and stemmed base, provide a vintage charm and are known for their stability and spill-resistance.
Nick and Nora glasses, smaller and more delicate than martini glasses, are also gaining popularity for Manhattans. Their elegant shape and controlled pour make them an excellent choice for those who prefer a more refined experience. Rocks glasses, while not traditionally stemmed, are sometimes used for Manhattans served “on the rocks,” providing a sturdy and casual option.
Can I use a rocks glass for a Manhattan? If so, when is it appropriate?
Yes, a rocks glass, also known as an old-fashioned glass, can be used for a Manhattan, particularly when serving it “on the rocks,” meaning with ice. While a stemmed glass is more traditional for a neat Manhattan (without ice), a rocks glass is perfectly appropriate when ice is added. The broader base of the rocks glass provides stability and ample space for ice cubes.
Using a rocks glass can also create a more casual and approachable experience, deviating from the typically formal presentation of a Manhattan. This choice is suitable for informal gatherings or when personal preference leans towards a less pretentious presentation. A rocks glass made of crystal can elevate the visual experience even when served with ice.
What are the advantages of using crystal glasses for cocktails like Manhattans?
Crystal glasses, especially lead-free crystal, offer several advantages for enhancing the enjoyment of cocktails like Manhattans. One primary benefit is their superior clarity and brilliance, which allows the cocktail’s color and texture to be fully appreciated. This visual appeal adds to the overall sensory experience, making the drink more enticing.
Crystal also tends to be thinner and lighter than standard glass, contributing to a more elegant and refined feel in the hand. The delicate rims of crystal glasses can enhance the tactile sensation of drinking, and the resonant sound they produce when clinked adds to the overall ambiance. Furthermore, crystal glasses are typically more durable and resistant to chipping than standard glass, ensuring longevity.
How does the shape of a cocktail glass affect the drinking experience of a Manhattan?
The shape of a cocktail glass significantly influences the drinking experience of a Manhattan in several ways. A wider mouth, as found in martini and coupe glasses, allows for a greater appreciation of the cocktail’s aromatic profile, enhancing the overall flavor perception. The angle of the glass’s sides also directs the liquid flow, influencing where the drink hits the palate and thus affecting the taste.
Furthermore, the shape of the glass contributes to the visual appeal, impacting the perceived elegance and sophistication of the drink. A stemmed glass elevates the drink, creating a sense of formality, while a rocks glass offers a more casual presentation. Ultimately, the shape plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sensory and emotional experience of enjoying a Manhattan.
Are there any specific brands known for producing high-quality cocktail glasses suitable for Manhattans?
Several brands are well-regarded for producing high-quality cocktail glasses that are perfectly suited for serving Manhattans. Riedel, for example, is renowned for its crystal glassware, offering a range of elegant and durable options designed to enhance the drinking experience. Spiegelau is another popular choice, known for its sophisticated designs and high-quality lead-free crystal glasses.
Libbey offers a range of durable and affordable cocktail glasses, suitable for both home and professional use. Waterford Crystal provides exquisite, handcrafted glassware that adds a touch of luxury to any occasion. Baccarat, a luxury brand, is known for its iconic and exceptionally crafted crystal glassware. Investing in glasses from these brands is a great way to elevate the enjoyment of any well-made Manhattan.