In 1827, Delmonico’s opened in lower Manhattan and forever changed the culinary scene. The now-defunct restaurant introduced à la carte dining to the masses, along with groundbreaking dishes and cocktails that still exist on menus today. It even created a namesake cocktail glass.
The Delmonico glass is the shortest member of the highball family. It was first used to hold the restaurant’s house tipple—a blend of gin, brandy and vermouth—but was subsequently used to hold fizzes and Rickeys. The tall and narrow cylindrical shape helps to keep drinks cold and carbonated because of its limited surface area, while allowing for a good balance of ice and liquid.
Today, the tumbler can be used to add a touch of class to pretty much any cocktail, including a whiskey highball, dark ‘n stormy, mojito, americano, Tom Collins and more. Here, four of the best Delmonico glasses on Amazon to introduce to your home bar.
1. Marquis by Waterford Hiball Collins Glasses
Part of Waterford’s value collection, these highball glasses from Marquis are sure to appeal to traditionalists thanks to their classic design. Featuring top-notch craftsmanship, each glass has textured detailing in a pineapple-like pattern. This makes the glass extremely easy to grip and is unquestionably striking. Each tumbler is made in Italy from the best lead-free crystalline and can hold up to 13 ounces each. Of course, they also have the weight and stability that’s synonymous with the Waterford brand. This four-piece set looks good and feels even better.
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2. Schott Zwiesel Distil Collins Glass
Look at the other selections on this list and one thing is clear: Delmonico glasses tend to be bold. That’s especially true of this vessel from Schott Zwiesel. Each glass in the four-pack has a Grey Skye pattern that looks just like cracked ice, making it especially appropriate for a cold drink. Despite this pattern, the glass itself is mighty tough. Made from non-lead Tritan crystal, these glasses are chip- and scratch-resistant, as well as dishwasher safe.
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3. Godinger Highball Glasses
Cocktail glasses don’t come much more classic than this flared highball glass from Godinger. Like so many of the brand’s vessels, this version features an old-timey cross-hatched pattern cut into the bottom that ensures you’re drinking in style. The glass, which comes in a set of four, is also made of lead-free crystal which gives it the heft and feel of a glass found at your favorite cocktail lounge. Keep in mind that you’ll probably want to wash the set by hand, though.
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4. NOVICA Multicolor Highball Glasses
Novica’s six-piece set is both fun and eco-friendly. Made in association with National Geographic, the fair trade glasses were handblown by skilled artisans, Javier and Efren, from recycled materials. Featuring nearly every color under the rainbow, the glasses have a circular pattern on the bottom half that resembles confetti. They are playful yet tasteful and will bring a little joy to your next drinking sesh. Measuring 6 inches high but 2.8 inches wide, they can hold 11 ounces and will need to be hand-washed.
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