There’s no doubt about it, when it comes to presenting classic cocktails, you truly don’t want to venture too far off from the basics. And as much as I’d personally love to put every drink in a coupe glass from tap water to iced tea, the truth is some are a bit more serious about their cocktails. With that in mind, having a well curated rocks glass in your entertainment closet is an absolute must. Here are a few of my favorites:

TIMELESS & EXPECTED
For the guests bound to ask for a scotch with a twist, bourbon straight up or even Mezcal on the rocks, always go for a rocks glass with a bit of weight. A vessel that makes the drink feel sophisticated and substantial. I personally love these crystal beauties from Waterford for such an occasion.

Waterford London Double Old Fashioned

If grid cut crystal isn’t your thing, a nice clean rocks glass like this one from Pottery Barn will also do the trick.

Pottery Barn’s Schott Zweisel Double Old Fashioned 

SIMPLE & EFFORTLESS
When I’m hosting last minute or just want the cocktail to feel a bit more effortless, my go to glass are these lovelies from CB2. The Marta glasses are perfect for cocktails, spirit tastings, water and if your guests aren’t the fussy type, you can even sneak a bit of wine in there. I love them so much, we used them for Bessie and Adam’s super chic wedding outside of Portland. They’re a must for any host.

Marta Tasting Glasses from CB2

JUST PRETTY ENOUGH
While rocks glasses are traditionally designed to be slightly more masculine, a bit of etching or a pretty shape can make even a boring brown liquid look absolutely stunning.

I’m personally obsessed with this collection from Puik Design sold via Design Milk. The facets in the glass are not only beautiful, but also make any drink more fun since you can balance the glass on any of the many facets in the glass.

Puik Design Radiant Crystal Glasses from Design Milk

And if you want something just as lovely but a bit more classic,  you can’t go wrong with these diamond etched glasses from Crate and Barrel’s Hatch Collection. They’re a beautiful weight and have the most gorgeous texture.

Hatch Glasses from Crate & Barrel

And just in case you need a little inspiration on what to serve in any of the above stunners, (beyond the classic Scotch on the rocks, of course), here’s the perfect Vieux Carre Cocktail recipe straight from our go to drink experts, The Cocktail Academy:

The Vieux Carre Cocktail is a 1930’s New Orleans recipe named after the city’s French Quarter. It’s a potent but smooth cocktail and the perfect option to show off your at home bartending skills. You’ll need:

3/4 oz. Rye Whiskey
3/4 oz. Cognac
3/4 oz. Sweet Vermouth
1 bar spoon of Benedictine
2 dashes of Peychaud’s Bitters
2 dashes Angostura Bitters

Shake and serve on the rocks. 

Come back soon and we’ll chat more about weddings, celebrations and everything you need to effortlessly entertain at home. Cheers!