Updated on: 6/3/2025
What Is a Highball Glass Used For?
A Highball glass is a versatile, essential piece of barware. Its tall, slender construction makes it the standard choice when serving cocktails containing a generous amount of ice and non-alcoholic mixers. From classic highballs to many refreshing long drinks, this glass is built to hold both the spirits and the mixer in perfect proportion, allowing flavors to meld while maintaining a crisp, cold temperature throughout the drink.
Primary Uses of the Highball Glass
- Serving mixed cocktails with a high percentage of soda, tonic, ginger ale, or juice—such as highballs, gin and tonics, or vodka sodas.
- Maintaining a cold, refreshing temperature thanks to its capacity for ample ice—typically between 240 ml and 350 ml.
- Displaying vibrant garnishes and tall citrus twists for an appealing presentation.
Why the Shape Matters
A Highball glass’s tall, straight-sided design allows plenty of room for both mixer and ice. This construction helps slow dilution, keeping the cocktail crisp, carbonated, and refreshing until the last sip. Its height provides visual appeal, showcasing the layering of spirits, mixer, and any colorful additions.
Best-Known Cocktails Served in Highball Glasses
- Classic Highball: 60 ml whiskey, 120 ml soda water, ice, lemon twist
- Gin and Tonic: 45 ml gin, 120 ml tonic water, ice, lime wedge
- Vodka Soda: 45 ml vodka, 120 ml soda water, ice, lemon wheel
- Rum and Coke: 45 ml rum, 120 ml cola, ice, lime wedge
When to Choose a Highball Over a Collins or Rocks Glass
Opt for a Highball glass when you want to emphasize dilution, carbonation, and plenty of non-alcoholic mixer. Collins glasses are similarly tall but usually slimmer and slightly larger, making them preferred for drinks with more mixer or tall citrus garnishes. Rocks or Old-Fashioned glasses are best for shorter, spirit-forward cocktails with less mixer.