Mixing Glass Review: Is It Worth It?

A mixing glass seems like a luxury. Do you really need a special glass for stirring drinks? We tested several to find out.

This review covers what mixing glasses do, when you need one, and which ones work best. You'll know if it's worth adding to your bar.

What is a Mixing Glass?

A mixing glass is a large glass used for stirring cocktails. It's wider than a regular glass, which makes stirring easier.

You use it with a bar spoon to stir drinks. The wide opening gives you room to move the spoon. The large capacity holds ice and ingredients.

When Do You Need One?

You need a mixing glass if you stir drinks regularly. Shaking and stirring are different techniques. Some drinks require stirring.

If you only make shaken drinks, you don't need one. But if you want to make proper martinis, old fashioneds, or manhattans, you need a mixing glass.

My Experience

I've used mixing glasses for over a year. They make stirring much easier than using a regular glass. The wide opening gives you room to work.

The results are better too. Proper stirring creates a smooth, clear drink. You can't achieve this by shaking.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Makes stirring easier
• Better results than shaking for stirred drinks
• Professional appearance
• Large capacity

Cons

• Takes up storage space
• Can break if dropped
• Not needed if you only shake drinks
• Extra cost

Top Recommendations

Best Overall: Koriko Mixing Glass

This glass is well-made. The capacity is perfect. The lip pours cleanly.

Pricing: $25-35

Bottom Line: Best quality for the price. Works perfectly for most drinks.

Best Value: Viski Classic Mixing Glass

This glass is basic but functional. It works fine for home use.

Pricing: $15-20

Bottom Line: Good value if you're on a budget. Gets the job done.

Best Premium: A Bar Above Mixing Glass

This glass is beautifully made. The capacity is generous. It looks professional.

Pricing: $40-50

Bottom Line: Best if you want premium quality. Worth it for serious home bartenders.

What to Look For

Capacity

A good mixing glass holds 16-20 ounces. This gives you room for ice and ingredients. Too small and you can't make proper drinks.

Shape

Look for a wide opening. This makes stirring easier. The base should be stable so it doesn't tip.

Quality

Tempered glass is best. It's more durable than regular glass. It can still break, but it's less likely.

Pour Spout

Some mixing glasses have a pour spout. This makes pouring easier. It's not essential, but it's nice to have.

Do You Really Need One?

You need one if:

• You make stirred drinks regularly
• You want proper martinis and manhattans
• You're serious about cocktail technique

You can skip it if:

• You only make shaken drinks
• You're just starting out
• Budget is tight

Alternatives

You can use a regular glass in a pinch. But it's not ideal. Regular glasses are too narrow. Stirring is awkward.

A pint glass works better than a narrow glass. But a proper mixing glass is still better.

Bottom Line

A mixing glass is worth it if you stir drinks. It makes the process easier and the results better. You can't make proper stirred cocktails without one.

If you only shake drinks, skip it. You don't need it. But if you want to master cocktail technique, get one.

Focus on capacity and quality. A good mixing glass lasts years. It's worth spending a bit more for quality.