No alcohol is as sentimental as whisky, especially at this time of year.
When the winter chill sets in and fires across the nation are set ablaze, it’s time to snuggle down and reach for the brown liquors.
Unlike a hearty glug of beer or the fizz of a vodka spritz, whisky oozes a cool demeanour. Distinguished characters such as James Bond, Kingsman’s Eggsy and Inglourious Basterds' Lieutenant Archie Hicox opt for the golden tipple when something big, be it a celebration or a shoot-out, is about to occur.
However, the majesty of whisky becomes redundant without a beautiful whisky glass to nonchalantly swirl as you sip. Unlike dainty wine glasses or champagne flutes, whisky glasses are weighty and take the form of sturdy tumblers. As such, the liquor has garnered a reputation for being a gentleman's drink.
But it seems the tide is turning. Stars like Mila Kunis and Simone Ashley have collaborated with prominent whisky brands such as Beam, a brand that champions its female drinkers. Lady Gaga, Rihanna and Halle Berry are also self-professed whisky fans.
For those with more traditional taste, don't fear as heritage glassmakers are at your beck and call. We spoke to Stephanie Wright, Brand Expert at Dartington Crystal who answered our whisky glass FAQs.
What makes a good whisky glass?
"A good whisky glass will enhance the complex flavours and aromas of your chosen whisky. When selecting the right whisky glass, it's important to consider the overall construction and feel of the design. The structure of a good whisky glass is determined by its rim, body, and stem. Each aspect impacts the release of the whisky’s aromas and flavours and helps enhance the drinker’s experience."
What is the difference between handmade and mass-produced whisky glasses?
"Crafted by hand by skilled artisans, handmade glassware is created using a blowpipe. Natural materials, such as sand and limestone, are heated at high temperatures and mouth-blown and moulded into shape. Unlike machine-made glassware, handmade glassware is typically thicker and weightier and provides a luxurious look and feel. Handmade glass offers a unique finish in which no two pieces will be the same.
"Mass-produced glassware is typically machine-made using moulds. Machine-made glasses are usually less expensive and the glass is usually thinner and less weighted than handblown glasses. While mass-produced glassware tends to have a more uniform look compared to handmade glasses, it doesn’t possess the same charm."
Which of your whisky glasses would you recommend for everyday and occasion use?
"A traditional tumbler is a popular choice when it comes to whisky drinking. A tumbler works well for everyday and special occasions and suits whisky served neat, on the rocks, or with a mixer. The short profile shape helps position the nose closer to your whisky’s distinctive aromas, helping evenly distribute its fragrance and flavours with every sip. In addition, a tumbler with a wide rim shape helps to aerate the liquor, enhancing its aromas while drawing harsh alcohol vapours away from the nose. If you prefer your whisky on the rocks, opt for a glass with a stem base. This design helps keep warm hands away from the bowl, ensuring your drink stays cooler for longer."
Discover the best whisky glasses for serving the finest Scotch, Bourbon and whiskies below.
Shop now
Rebecca Udall Pair of Murano Whisky Glasses
Appreciate the beautiful amber tones in your chosen firewater by pouring a measure into Rebecca Udall's chocolate-striped whisky glasses. Handblown from Murano glass, they'll make a stunning gift for any whisky lover. Dishwasher safe.
Buy now £160.00, Rebecca Udall
Nachtmann Noblesse Whisky Glass Tumbler
An attractive vessel for a wee dram as well as cocktails, the facets of this cut crystal glass will add to the allure of your drinks cabinet. Sold as a pair, they're perfect for using when you're hosting.
Buy now £32.50, John Lewis
Soho Home Roebling Cut Crystal Rocks Glass
Inject your glassware cabinet with luxury. Soho Home’s Roebling collection is designed exclusively for Dumbo House and is a touching tribute to John Augustus Roebling, the civil engineer who designed and built Brooklyn Bridge. The resplendent glasses are handmade from weight crystal and boast a brilliantly polished finish for at-home entertaining.
Buy now £175.00, Soho Home
John Lewis ANYDAY Paloma Opera Crystal Glass Tumblers
Serve up a neat tipple with John Lewis’ Paloma glass tumblers. Ideal for everyday use, the inexpensive yet elegant pieces marry traditional cut glass effects with contemporary elements such as dishwasher-safe crystal made in a zero-waste, carbon-neutral glass factory in Italy.
Buy now £15.00, John Lewis
Seletti Kintsugi Glass and Gold Tumbler
Seletti's unique Kintsugi offering promises a more philosophical take on glassware. Kintsugi draws on the belief that mending a broken object enhances its beauty. Seletti’s interpretation of the practice culminates in a fired glass tumbler laced with beautiful golden detailing that will complement the honey tone of your chosen whisky blend.
Buy now £27.00, Selfridges
Nude Arch Set
Nude’s Arch whisky duo is perfect for couples who enjoy a drink together. Curl up by the fire and admire the pieces’ contemporary curved base, lead-free crystal exterior and classic weightiness of the majestically modern set.
Buy now £55.00, My Theresa
Dartington Armchair Spirits Sipper Whisky Glass
Dartington takes a conventional approach with its Armchair Spirits Sipper set. As per the name, the glass is to be used when submerged in the comfort of a home corner and enjoyed for its charismatic aesthetic.
Buy now £29.00, Dartington
Ichendorf Milano Marine Garden Set
Break from tradition entirely and look to Ichendorf Milano for inspiration. The brand’s quirky Marine Garden set is not to be missed. Submerge the mysterious seascape in golden whisky and marvel at the fish who bob peacefully amidst the liquor waves. Bottoms up.
Buy now £99.00, Amazon
Handblown Glass Cheeky Mood Tumbler
Fresh from the tableware label’s collaboration with Claridge’s, the brand is offering these playful tumblers that are guaranteed conversation starters. The glasses have been handblown in Italy and beautifully adorned with emoji-esque faces.
Buy now £65.00, Summerill & Bishop
John Lewis & Partners Sirius Crystal Glass Whisky Decanter and Tumblers Set
If you’re looking for a substantial gift minus the hefty price tag, John Lewis has this beautiful crystal decanter with six matching tumbler-style glasses for a mere £80. Not a bad price for a special occasion.
Buy now £80.00, John Lewis
