I feel like our very strong opinions about what sort of liquids should go in what type of vessel feels out of step with our do-what-feels-good-for-you philosophy, but we stand by it. Most drinks just do taste better when they’re sipped from their kindred spirit, soulmate vessel. 

We know a lot of you aren’t going to be convinced or care, and that’s fine—not everyone needs to feel this strongly! The Recycled Moroccan Glasses size medium is super multi-purpose and you can put many beverages in there with great success.  But if you’re willing to go with me on this glassware exploration, let’s go—

When you’re drinking something super boozy on ice, look for a grounded, stately shape that nestles just so in your hand. We love these Luisa Vino glasses that are smooth on the outside, with interior ridges for visual intrigue. They fit a two ounce pour plus ice just perfectly. 

You have a thirst that must be quenched! Pour something frigid into a dainty glass, glug it up, and immediately refill. These stylish bright blue Nini Bevanda glasses are the ideal vessel for doing just that. 

For a super juicy cocktail where the spirit plays more of a supporting role, you need a glass that has a higher ounce capacity, of course! These Italian Velasca Bevanda Glasses feel so nice in your hand. They’re solid and substantial, but still modern and elegant. A pint glass, but way cuter. The perfect glass to stick a metal straw and lots of fresh fruit garnish in.

You can be the kind of host who, when the meal has ended and the conversation’s turned more intimate, graciously helps your guests transition from seated upright in the kitchen to semi-reclined in the living room, for a little nip of something special. But you need a proper snifter! These hand blown whiskey snifters made by our pal Hayden Wilson right here in Asheville, are an elegant update to the traditional form. Use it for a touch of Calvados, Armagnac, Kentucky Bourbon with an ice cube, or a finger or two of that Balvenie you’ve been nursing since last winter. 

Some of our favorite, less appreciated  spirits to drink on their own...

Aged Rum: Our absolute favorite spirit to drink over ice. Aged rum gives off heady vanilla and oaky aromas and have a tangy, funky backbone from fermented sugar cane. 

Añejo Tequila: For tequila to have this classification, it must be aged for over a year in oak barrels. It tastes entirely unique from the clear stuff you shoot with salt and lime. It’s especially nice with the oils from an expressed grapefruit or orange peel to mingle with the tequila. 

Italian Amaro: An umbrella term for a wide variety of bittersweet Italian liqueurs, typically consumed as a digestif or after-dinner drink. Some of our faves are Cynar, Averna, and Amaro Nonino, but it’s a vast wild, world to explore. See if you like it as is with ice, or add an orange, lime, or lemon wedge to cut the bite.