Glassware Dictionary: Talking Highball

It’s sleek, it’s simple, and it’s versatile – more than just a pretty face. In any discourse concerning glassware, one cannot overlook the presence of highball glasses.

Let’s cast a spotlight upon these illustrious drink companions to explore what they bring to the table during those cherished cocktail hours.

Why is Highball Called Highball?

First things first, why is it called highball glass? The slang term in the 1890s for glass was “ball.” Also, the shape of the glass is tall with quite a capacity to hold a significant quantity of the drink and ice, making it suitable for highball cocktails and other similar mixes.

What is a Highball Glass?

Highball glasses, characterized by their tall, cylindrical shape and capacity ranging from 8 to 12 ounces (240 to 350 milliliters), are among the most ubiquitous forms of glassware. Their design is perfectly tailored to the art of crafting highball cocktails, renowned for the seamless blend of mixer, ice, and primary spirit—a quintessential feature of these tall sippers. Crafted from thick glass or crystal, these glasses excel in preserving beverage chill without succumbing to over-dilution, making them equally suitable for both domestic and commercial environments. While highball glasses naturally complement classic cocktails like Screwdriver, Tequila Sunrise, or Cuba Libre, their versatility extends to a wide spectrum of non-alcoholic beverages, including iced tea, lemonade, and carbonated water. With their expansive rims, highball glasses not only provide space for imaginative garnishes but also simplify storage and cleanup, ensuring they remain a timeless choice for any occasion.

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How Did it Evolve?

Highball glasses started out as simple, functional vessels designed to hold an ample capacity of liquid, making them perfect for the highball cocktails we love. However, things got fancy in the mid-20s when modern designs came into play with intricate patterns and cool shapes. This turned highball glasses into much more than just functional – much more stylish and decorative. Today, highball glasses represent a combination of both the old and the new. You can find them in a wide variety of shapes and styles, made from glass or crystal, with a blend of practicality and trendy patterns.