Updated on: 6/3/2025
What Types of Cocktails Are Best Served in a Wine Glass?
Wine glasses aren't exclusive to wines—bartenders favor them for specific cocktails that benefit from aeration, elegant presentation, or enhanced aromatics. The shape of a wine glass can amplify delicate fragrances, while the ample bowl encourages swirling and showcases layered garnishes.
Why a Wine Glass Makes a Difference
The large bowl and tapered rim of a wine glass are perfect for cocktails built with fresh fruits, herbs, or effervescent mixers. This design highlights aromatic notes and allows for gentle agitation—boosting the sensory experience with every sip.
Top Cocktails Best Served in a Wine Glass
- Sangria: Classic Spanish punch mixing 120 ml red wine, 30 ml brandy, 60 ml orange juice, seasonal fruits, and 30 ml simple syrup; ice and a slice of orange complete the build.
- Aperol Spritz: 60 ml Aperol, 90 ml Prosecco, and 30 ml soda water, built over ice and finished with an orange wheel. The wine glass shape boosts the bitter-orange and herbal aromas.
- French 75 (variations): 30 ml gin, 15 ml lemon juice, 15 ml simple syrup, topped with 60 ml sparkling wine—served up in a wine glass when built on the rocks or as a modern 'spritz' style.
- Punches and Wine-Based Coolers: Large-format or single-serve punch cocktails benefit from the generous bowl, allowing for plenty of ice, fruits, or botanical garnishes.
- Rosé Spritz: 90 ml dry rosé wine, 30 ml elderflower liqueur, 30 ml soda water, fresh berries, and citrus, built over ice. The wine glass encourages aromatic lift and visual appeal.
Cocktail Styles That Shine in a Wine Glass
- Spritzes: Mixes with a sparkling wine or soda base (Aperol, Campari, French, or regional fruit liqueurs).
- Fruit-Based Punches: Long, refreshing drinks featuring fresh or macerated fruit, wine, and spirits.
- Herbal & Botanical Cocktails: Beverages showcasing fresh herbs (mint, basil), floral liqueurs, or gin.
- Seasonal Sangrias: Red, white, or rosé versions with a focus on highlighting seasonal produce and delicate spice.
Serving Tips for Wine-Glass Cocktails
- Use large, fresh ice cubes to keep dilution slow and drinks visually striking.
- Swirl ingredients gently before serving to mix flavors without bruising herbs or watering down effervescent cocktails.
- Garnish generously—think citrus wheels, fresh herbs, or edible flowers—since the wide mouth and generous bowl beautifully showcase color and garnish.
Wine glasses open up countless creative options, whether highlighting complex botanicals in a spritz or letting vibrant seasonal fruit shine in a sangria. Their design is both practical and beautiful—elevating classics and modern cocktails alike.
