The old fashioned glass is the workhorse of any home bar. Whether you call it a whiskey tumbler, rocks glass, lowball glass, or short cocktail glass, this sturdy, wide-mouthed vessel makes classic spirits sing. In this guide, you’ll learn what an old fashioned glass is, how many ounces it holds, the difference between rocks and old fashioned glasses, and how to choose the best old fashioned glasses for whiskey, bourbon, and scotch.
What is an old fashioned glass?
An old fashioned glass is a short, wide tumbler with a heavy base designed for serving spirits neat, on the rocks, or stirred cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Negroni. Its broad diameter accommodates large ice cubes or spheres, while the thick base protects your hand from warming the drink. You’ll hear it called a rocks glass, lowball, bourbon glass, scotch glass, or simply a barware tumbler—same family, minor variations.
Old fashioned glass sizes: double vs single
Choosing the right size affects dilution, aroma, and comfort.
- Single old fashioned glass: Typically 8–10 ounces; some run as low as 6–7 ounces. Ideal for neat pours, smaller ice cubes, and minimalist builds.
- Double old fashioned glass (DOF): Usually 12–16 ounces. Perfect for large ice cubes/balls, tall citrus peels, and cocktails that need more headroom.
Rule of thumb: If you love big ice and aromatic garnishes, go double. If you prefer compact sips or neat whiskey, single feels just right.
Old fashioned vs rocks glass: is there a difference?
In everyday use, most people use “old fashioned glass” and “rocks glass” interchangeably. Bartenders sometimes distinguish them like this:
- Rocks glass: Slightly smaller, often 8–10 ounces.
- Old fashioned glass: Often a touch broader or heavier; double old fashioned versions run larger.
Practically, both serve the same drinks. Focus less on labels and more on capacity, base weight, and rim feel.
How many ounces in an old fashioned glass?
- Expect a single to hold about 8–10 ounces.
- Expect a double to hold about 12–16 ounces.
Cocktail builds rarely fill the glass to the brim. A 2-ounce pour of whiskey plus ice and dilution sits comfortably in either; doubles simply give more space for ice and aromatics.
Crystal vs glass old fashioned tumbler
Both have their place. Here’s how to choose.
- Crystal old fashioned glass
- Pros: Brilliant sparkle, bell-like clink, ultra-clear for viewing color. Cuts and facets amplify the look of vintage whiskey glass styles.
- Cons: Pricier; lead-free crystal is the standard now, but still handle with care. Some patterns can feel sharp at the lip.
- Glass old fashioned tumbler
- Pros: Durable, budget-friendly, often dishwasher-safe, smooth rims for easy sipping.
- Cons: Less sparkle and heft than crystal; may scuff over time.
If presentation matters—think gifting or special pours—go crystal. For everyday barware, tempered glass hits the sweet spot.
Choosing the right old fashioned glass for bourbon, scotch, and whiskey
Match the glass to how you drink:
- Base weight and balance: A thick, heavy base anchors the glass and feels premium.
- Diameter and ice: Love a 2-inch cube or a sphere? Choose a double old fashioned glass so the ice fits without crowding.
- Rim profile: A slight taper concentrates aroma; a straight rim gives a classic lowball silhouette.
- Clarity and cut: Smooth walls showcase the spirit’s color; faceted cuts give vintage character and better grip.
- Durability: For daily use, look for dishwasher-safe glass or toughened crystal.
- Set size: An old fashioned glass set of 4–8 keeps you covered for guests and home bar service.
Tip: Bourbon cocktails often benefit from wider DOF glasses for big ice and orange oils. Scotch neat can shine in a smaller whiskey tumbler with a smooth rim.
Best old fashioned glasses for whiskey: styles and use cases
- Classic straight-sided rocks glass: Versatile, stackable, easy to wash.
- Double old fashioned (DOF): For big ice, spirit-forward cocktails, and generous aromatics.
- Cut crystal old fashioned glass: Gift-ready, vintage appeal, elevated presentation.
- Etched or patterned lowball glass: Adds grip and style without full crystal pricing.
- Double-walled short cocktail glass: Extra insulation to slow dilution and keep hands comfy.
Use case quick picks:
- For Old Fashioneds and Negronis: DOF with a 2-inch cube.
- For neat bourbon or scotch: Single old fashioned, smooth rim.
- For outdoor use: Thick tempered glass or double-walled designs.
Vintage whiskey glass vs modern designs
Vintage-inspired cuts give your bar that speakeasy charm. They pair beautifully with amber spirits and make a simple pour feel ceremonial. Modern minimal glasses emphasize clarity and weight, letting the whiskey’s color do the talking. If you entertain, mix a few vintage whiskey glass pieces with contemporary DOFs for character and flexibility.
Old fashioned glass sets and gift ideas
Shopping for a whiskey lover? Consider:
- Old fashioned glass set (4–6 pieces) to cover everyday sipping and guests.
- Large ice mold (2-inch cubes or spheres) to match a double old fashioned glass.
- Crystal old fashioned glass pair for milestone gifts and anniversaries.
- Barware tumbler + jigger + mixing glass bundle for cocktail enthusiasts.
- Personalized engraving for a thoughtful touch without breaking the bank.
FAQs
What is an old fashioned glass used for?
It’s a short, sturdy tumbler for whiskey neat, spirits on the rocks, and stirred cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Boulevardier.
What’s the difference between a rocks glass and an old fashioned glass?
They’re often the same in practice. A rocks glass can skew slightly smaller; an old fashioned glass (especially a double) offers more space for large ice.
Double vs single old fashioned glass: which should I buy?
If you like big ice and cocktails, get a double old fashioned glass. If you sip neat or prefer compact drinks, a single feels perfect.
How many ounces in an old fashioned glass?
Singles are typically 8–10 ounces; doubles are about 12–16 ounces.
How do I choose the best old fashioned glasses for whiskey?
Look for a heavy base, a diameter that fits your preferred ice, a comfortable rim, and either crystal for sparkle or glass for durability.
Conclusion
The right old fashioned glass elevates every pour—whether you’re swirling a smoky scotch, building a bourbon Old Fashioned, or serving a short cocktail on the rocks. Start with a solid set of singles for neat sips, add a couple of double old fashioned glasses for big-ice cocktails, and choose crystal or modern glass to match your style. Ready to upgrade your bar? Pick a set today, drop in a big cube, and let your whiskey speak.