What type of glass is typically used for serving cocktails on the rocks?

The rocks glass, also known as a lowball glass, is specifically designed for serving cocktails that are served over ice. This type of glass typically has a short, sturdy design which allows for easy handling and enhances the drinking experience by accommodating the use of ice. The wide brim enables the drinker to enjoy the aroma of the cocktail, and the heavy bottom provides stability and prevents tipping.

Cocktails served "on the rocks," such as whiskey or rum, benefit from the rocks glass because the shape allows for a generous amount of ice while providing a comfortable capacity for a standard drink. The design supports a relaxed drinking style, which is often desired for these types of cocktails.

In contrast, other glass types like the highball glass, martini glass, or flute glass are more specialized for different kinds of drinks. Highball glasses are better suited for longer mixed drinks, martini glasses are designed for cocktails served straight without ice, and flute glasses are intended for sparkling wines and champagne. Each of these glasses serves a unique purpose based on the drink’s composition and presentation, further emphasizing why the rocks glass is the ideal choice for cocktails served on the rocks.